The immediate past Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Bauchi State.
Tuggar, who stepped down from his ministerial role in March 2026, said his resignation followed a directive by Bola Tinubu requiring political appointees seeking elective positions to vacate office.
Speaking during a visit to the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Bauchi ahead of his official declaration, the former minister emphasized the importance of party loyalty and unity. He noted that the party remained the first point of engagement in his political journey.
“I resigned my position on March 31 in line with the President’s directive,” Tuggar said, while urging APC members to close ranks and work towards reclaiming power in the state.
He also pledged to support whoever emerges as the party’s governorship candidate if he does not secure the ticket, stressing that he would not pursue legal action against fellow party members.
“My philosophy is simple, whoever becomes the flag bearer will have my full support,” he added.
At his declaration event, Tuggar said his ambition is driven by a desire to improve the living conditions of residents, pointing to persistent challenges such as poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and inadequate access to quality education and healthcare.
He promised to build on past achievements while addressing existing gaps, with a focus on economic development through agriculture, support for small and medium enterprises, and the exploration of solid minerals.
Tuggar also outlined plans to ensure prompt salary payments, upgrade market infrastructure, and boost rural development.
On security, he pledged stronger collaboration between communities and security agencies, increased investment in intelligence gathering, and targeted efforts to tackle the root causes of crime, including youth unemployment and drug abuse.
“We will ensure that farmers can work without fear, traders can travel safely, and children can go to school in peace,” he said.
In the education sector, Tuggar promised to reduce the number of out-of-school children, invest in teachers, expand vocational training, and promote digital innovation among young people.
He further committed to improving access to affordable primary healthcare and providing social protection for vulnerable groups.
The former minister added that his administration would prioritize transparency, civil service reforms, infrastructure development, and inclusive governance, with particular attention to women and minority communities.
“This is not just my ambition; it is a collective mission to move Bauchi State forward,” Tuggar said.
Advertisement
