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ABUJA – Aso Rock is witnessing a flurry of activity today as several members of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet tender their resignations. In line with the President’s directive and the Electoral Act, all political appointees nursing ambitions for the 2027 general elections must vacate their offices by today, March 31, 2026.
The departures signal an imminent and major cabinet reshuffle, with a valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for Wednesday.
The First Movers: Who Is Out?
- Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (Foreign Affairs): The first to officially exit, Tuggar has resigned to contest the Bauchi State governorship. His tenure was marked by the "4D Foreign Policy" and the formation of the Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD).
- Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu (Minister of State, Humanitarian Affairs): Resigned to pursue the APC ticket for the Kebbi Central Senatorial Zone.
- Abdulrazak Namdas (NDDC Board): Resigned to contest the Adamawa State governorship.
The "Cold Feet" List: Who is Still Pondering?
While the deadline is here, several ministers are reportedly "jittery" due to the uncertain political climate within the APC, particularly with the rise of consensus arrangements and the push for automatic tickets for incumbents.
The 2027 Ambition Watchlist: Ministers on the Move
As the March 31 deadline expires, the following members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) are at the center of resignation speculation, balancing their current federal influence against the high-stakes gamble of state-level elective office:
1. Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (Foreign Affairs)
The first major heavy-hitter to make his exit official.
- The Destination: He is resigning to contest the Bauchi State governorship ticket under the APC.
- The Legacy: He leaves behind a "4D Foreign Policy" framework and a newly structured Nigerians-in-Diaspora database.
2. Adebayo Adelabu (Power)
While his spokesperson remains cautious, all signs point to a strategic pivot in the South West.
- The Destination: Reportedly eyeing the Oyo State governorship.
- The Signal: His team notes that "everything will become clearer in the next few days," suggesting a carefully timed transition.
3. Abubakar Kyari (Agriculture)
A key player in the administration’s food security agenda who may be heading home to lead.
- The Destination: Widely reported to be interested in the Borno State governorship.
- The Impact: His exit would leave a significant vacancy in one of the President's most prioritized "Renewed Hope" sectors.
4. Dr. Tunji Alausa (Education)
Despite previous denials, the political machinery in the nation's commercial capital is moving.
- The Destination: Allegedly nursing a bid for the Lagos State governorship.
- The Status: Aides remain coy, stating only that "Tomorrow is almost here," as the deadline forces a final decision.
5. Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu (State, Humanitarian Affairs)
Choosing the legislative route over the executive branch.
- The Destination: Has officially declared his intention to seek the APC ticket for the Kebbi Central Senatorial Zone.
6. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (State, Labour & Employment)
One of the most prominent female voices in the cabinet looking toward the South East.
- The Destination: Believed to be eyeing the Abia State governorship.
- The Hurdle: Reports indicate she was among those seeking last-minute "clearance" at the Villa before finalized her exit.
7. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi (Labour & Employment)
- The Destination: Looking toward a major political role in Sokoto State.
8. The "Heavyweight" Contemplators
Several other top-tier ministers have been mentioned in high-level discussions regarding the 2027 cycle, though their formal papers are still being tracked:
- Senator Atiku Bagudu (Budget and Economic Planning)
- Muhammad Ali Pate (Health and Social Welfare)
- Dave Umahi (Works)
