Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has described Bauchi State as rich in history, culture, and human potential, but lamented that many residents still grapple with poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and limited access to quality education and healthcare.
He said the situation must change, expressing confidence that meaningful progress would come with the election of capable and committed leaders in the next coming general elections.
Speaking on Saturday at the Games Village in Bauchi metropolis, when he declared his intention to contest for the Bauchi State governorship in the 2027 general elections, pledging to address the state’s persistent socio-economic challenges.
Tuggar will now vie for the APC governorship ticket in Bauchi State alongside other aspirants who have already declared their intentions, including former NNPC staff Bala Wunti and Senator Shehu Buba. He is also expected to face competition from likely contenders such as former Bauchi State governor Muhammad Abdullahi Abubakar, Prof. Ali Pate, Nura Manu Soro, among others.
“I am stepping forward not for power, but for service; not for privilege, but for progress,” Tuggar declared.
He noted that as a family man, he understands the critical role leadership plays in shaping both households and society, as well as the consequences of poor governance.
Tuggar also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs, noting that he resigned in compliance with the directive requiring cabinet members with political ambitions to step down.
“I remain grateful for the honour to serve Nigeria. My life’s journey has shaped my understanding of our people,” he said.
Highlighting his experience in public service, Tuggar stressed the importance of prompt and full payment of salaries, noting the hardship caused by delays or inadequate earnings.
He outlined his vision to build on past achievements while addressing gaps in governance. According to him, his administration would prioritise workers’ welfare, ensuring timely salary payments to sustain families, markets, and small businesses.
Tuggar pledged if he was elected, he will invest in intelligence gathering, strengthen community policing, and tackle root causes of insecurity such as youth unemployment, drug abuse, and poverty.
He promised to reduce the number of out-of-school children through inclusive policies, modernise schools, and invest in teachers. He also emphasised the need to expand vocational and technical training, promote digital innovation, and create opportunities for young people.
“Every child must be in school. Every youth must have a skill. Every graduate must have an opportunity,” he said.
Tuggar assured that his administration would ensure access to healthcare and affordable services, particularly for mothers and children, while strengthening social safety nets for vulnerable groups.
He further pledged to promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, while working with traditional and religious leaders to foster unity and social harmony.
Tuggar previously served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Germany from 2017 to 2023 and was a member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, representing Gamawa Federal Constituency. He has also contested the Bauchi governorship seat in the past twice.
Also speaking at the event, Senator Sama’ila Adamu Kaila, representing Bauchi North, reaffirmed the commitment of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to inclusive development and internal democracy.
He said the party would engage stakeholders to ensure a transparent and credible candidate selection process, urging members to unite behind whoever emerges as the flag bearer.
Kaila expressed confidence that the APC would secure victory in Bauchi State in the 2027 elections.
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