In a significant political development, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, has officially entered the race for the Bauchi State governorship. He secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) expression of interest and nomination forms on Wednesday, marking a crucial step in his bid for the state’s highest office.
After purchasing the forms, which cost N50 million, Tuggar addressed journalists, outlining his key priorities. He emphasized that tackling insecurity and revitalizing the economy through agriculture would be central to his administration. According to Tuggar, addressing security challenges and optimizing the state’s agricultural potential are essential for improving the lives of Bauchi residents.
“The issues of insecurity and the need to maximize our agricultural land will be at the forefront. Bauchi is blessed with vast land resources, and we must organize them to support local farmers and pastoralists, lifting many out of poverty,” Tuggar stated. He also stressed the importance of equitable land access to prevent economic disparities, cautioning against allowing resources to be concentrated in the hands of a few.
Regarding the APC primary election, Tuggar expressed openness to either direct primaries or a consensus model, as long as the process is transparent and credible. “I am fine with whatever method the party chooses, provided it ensures fairness. The most important thing is to field candidates with integrity and genuine public support,” he added.
Tuggar resigned from his position as Foreign Affairs Minister on March 30, 2026, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive that all political appointees seeking elective offices must step down. After his resignation, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who previously served as Minister of State in the same ministry, was appointed to head the Foreign Affairs Ministry.