Cabinet Shakeup as Ministers Resign Ahead of 2027 Elections
Nigeria’s political landscape is undergoing significant changes as ministers and top government officials step down to pursue ambitions for the 2027 general elections. The resignations, triggered by President Bola Tinubu’s directive, mark a pivotal shift in the federal cabinet and set the stage for intense political contests across key states.
In March, President Tinubu ordered all political appointees planning to contest in the 2027 polls to resign from their positions. This includes ministers, special advisers, senior assistants, and heads of government agencies. The move aligns with Section 88(1) of Nigeria’s Electoral Act, which prohibits public officeholders from participating in party primaries without first stepping down.
The deadline for resignations has now passed, and at least three ministers, a presidential aide, and several other appointees have vacated their roles. The exodus is reshaping Nigeria’s political dynamics as ambitious figures prepare for gubernatorial, senatorial, and federal legislative races.
Key Resignations and Political Ambitions
One of the most notable departures is that of Saidu Alkali, the Minister of Transportation, who submitted his resignation on Tuesday evening after meeting with President Tinubu. Alkali, a former three-term senator from Gombe State, is widely expected to run for governor in the 2027 election. Incumbent Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s tenure ends in May 2027, and Alkali is already building a formidable political base. He enjoys support from Vice President Kashim Shettima, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake.
In Bauchi State, Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has also resigned to pursue the governorship. Tuggar, a British-educated diplomat and former ambassador to Germany, previously served in the House of Representatives and contested the Bauchi governorship in 2011. His entry into the race could significantly influence the state’s political landscape, especially given his reputation for policy-driven governance.
Meanwhile, Yusuf Sununu, the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, has stepped down to vie for a senatorial seat in Kebbi State. Sununu, who has held multiple ministerial and legislative roles, brings significant experience to the contest.
Resignations Beyond the Cabinet
The wave of departures extends beyond the federal cabinet. Nasiru Gawuna, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, resigned last month and switched from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Similarly, Abdulrazak Namdas, representing the North-east zone on the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, resigned earlier this week.
Nasir Ja’oji, a Senior Special Assistant to the President, has also stepped down to run for a seat in the House of Representatives representing Tarauni Federal Constituency.
Uncertainty Surrounds Potential Candidates
While several officials have resigned, others are reportedly weighing their options. Mohammed Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has been linked to a gubernatorial bid in Bauchi State. Pate, who previously ran for governor three times, is said to be waiting for President Tinubu’s approval before stepping down.
Bayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, is another prominent figure being watched. Adelabu, who lost Oyo State’s governorship race in 2019 and 2023, is rumored to be considering another run.
In Adamawa State, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s political plans remain unclear. Similarly, Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, is reportedly exploring a governorship bid in Ogun State.
What Lies Ahead
With the resignation deadline passed, attention now turns to how these departures will impact the federal cabinet’s composition and the upcoming state-level contests. The 2027 elections are already generating significant interest, with key states like Bauchi, Gombe, and Oyo poised for competitive races.
President Tinubu’s directive underscores the administration’s commitment to adhering to electoral laws, even as it reshapes Nigeria’s political landscape. As the dust settles, the focus will shift to how these resignations influence party dynamics, campaign strategies, and governance in the lead-up to 2027.
— Reported by Nexio News
