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Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 Bauchi State governorship election.
Tuggar, who stepped down from his ministerial role, said his resignation complied with President Bola Tinubu’s directive requiring political appointees seeking elective office to leave government.
Speaking on Saturday during a visit to the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Bauchi ahead of his formal declaration, he said he first engaged the party leadership in line with protocol.
He stated that he resigned on March 31 as required by the presidential directive, adding that the party remained the starting point for his political journey.
“I approached the party office before moving to the declaration ground because the party is the first point of call. As directed by the President, I resigned my position on March 31.”
Tuggar urged party members to close ranks ahead of the primaries, stressing the need for unity to strengthen the APC’s chances in the state.
He also said he would support whoever becomes the party’s candidate if he does not secure the ticket, adding that internal disputes would not be taken to court.
According to him, he believes in party cohesion and collective responsibility after primaries.
At his declaration rally, Tuggar said his ambition was driven by a desire to improve governance and address socio-economic challenges in Bauchi State, including poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and gaps in education and healthcare.
He pledged to consolidate on existing development efforts while introducing reforms that will expand opportunities for residents.
He said his administration would prioritise economic diversification through agriculture, small and medium-scale enterprises, and solid mineral development.
He also promised timely payment of salaries, improved market systems, and stronger rural infrastructure.
On security, Tuggar said his government would deepen collaboration with security agencies, strengthen intelligence gathering, and tackle root causes of insecurity such as youth unemployment and drug abuse.
He assured residents that farming, trading, and schooling would be made safer under his leadership.
“We will ensure that no farmer fears going to the farm, no trader fears the road, and no child fears going to school,” he said.
In education, he pledged reforms to reduce out-of-school children, improve teacher welfare, expand vocational training, and promote digital skills among young people.
He also promised improved access to affordable healthcare and stronger social protection for vulnerable groups.
Tuggar added that his administration would focus on transparency, civil service reforms, infrastructure development, and inclusive governance with special attention to women and minority communities.
He described his aspiration as a collective effort to reposition Bauchi State for growth and development.
