FULL LIST: Seven Ministers Sacked, Resigned Under Tinubu As More Step Down Ahead of 2027
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As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration enters its third year, the winds of change continue to sweep through the Federal Executive Council. Since assuming office in 2023, the President has overseen notable ministerial exits—some forced by scandal, others by cabinet reshuffles, and now, a growing number driven by political ambition ahead of the 2027 elections.
With the March 31 deadline given to all political appointees nursing electoral ambitions, Ejes Gist News compiles a comprehensive list of ministers who have left office under the Tinubu administration—and those poised to follow.
Full List: Seven Ministers Who Have Left Office (2023–2026)
1. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar (Defence)
The former Governor of Jigawa State resigned from his position as Minister of Defence in December 2025. According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Badaru cited health reasons for his decision. President Tinubu accepted the resignation, thanking him for his service.
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2. Uche Nnaji (Science, Technology, and Innovation)
Nnaji resigned in 2025 amid serious forgery allegations. Investigations revealed that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) disowned the degree certificate he presented, while the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) also denied the authenticity of his certificate. Nnaji maintained that his resignation was “not an admission of guilt” but a choice to respect due process.
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3. Betta Edu (Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation)
One of the most high-profile suspensions of the administration, Dr. Betta Edu was suspended in January 2024 over allegations of financial misconduct. Reports indicated that N585.189 million meant for vulnerable citizens was diverted into a private account. Her suspension underscored Tinubu’s stated commitment to transparency. Her position was later permanently filled by Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda.
4. Tahir Mamman (Education)
Professor Tahir Mamman was dismissed in October 2024 during a major cabinet reshuffle. His policies, including setting 18 years as the minimum age for university admissions and prohibiting under-18 candidates from taking national examinations, sparked widespread controversy. Criticism also trailed his handling of governing councils for tertiary institutions.
5. Lola Ade-John (Tourism)
Ade-John was also sacked in October 2024 as part of the same reshuffle that saw several ministers relieved of their duties.
6. Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo (State, Housing and Urban Development)
Gwarzo was dismissed in October 2024, falling victim to the cabinet shake-up aimed at rejigging the administration for better performance.
7. Jamila Bio Ibrahim (Youth Development)
The former Minister of Youth Development was also dismissed in October 2024, completing the list of casualties from that major cabinet reshuffle.
NEW WAVE: Ministers, Appointees Resigning for 2027 Ambitions
In a fresh development, President Tinubu directed all political appointees with electoral ambitions to resign on or before March 31, 2026. As the deadline looms, several high-profile appointees have already stepped down.
Confirmed Resignations
Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs)
Tuggar tendered his resignation on Monday, March 30, 2026, confirming his intention to contest for the governorship of Bauchi State in 2027. His spokesman, Alkasim Abdulkadir, stated, “The minister is interested and he is aspiring to run for the governorship seat of Bauchi State.” Tuggar, a former Ambassador to Germany and two-time gubernatorial candidate, now makes his third attempt at the position.
Yusuf Sununu (State, Humanitarian Affairs) Sununu, a medical doctor by training and former House of Representatives member representing Kebbi State, also resigned ahead of the deadline. He previously served as Minister of State for Education before being redeployed to Humanitarian Affairs.
Other Appointees Who Have Stepped Down
– Nasiru Gawuna: Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria. Reports indicate he is planning to leave the APC for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following in the footsteps of former Kano Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
– Abdulrazak Namdas: Governing board member of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) representing the North-East Zone. Namdas, a former House of Representatives member, is rumored to be eyeing the Adamawa State governorship seat.
Who Is Expected to Resign Next?
Adelabu Resigns as Power Minister, Declares Oyo Governorship Ambition
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has officially resigned his position to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State.
In a resignation letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and transmitted through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Adelabu said his decision was informed by the need to fully concentrate on his political aspiration.
The letter, titled “Resignation as Honourable Minister of Power,” expressed appreciation to the President for the opportunity to serve in his administration.
Adelabu described his tenure as a privilege, noting that he contributed to efforts aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s power sector in line with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He stated that stepping down would allow him to dedicate his time and resources to contesting for the governorship seat in Oyo State.
Adelabu also conveyed his gratitude and respect to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him throughout his service.
Adelabu has made no secret of his ambition to contest for the Oyo State governorship in 2027—his third attempt after losing to incumbent Seyi Makinde in 2019 and 2023.
Adelabu, a chartered accountant and former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has faced mounting criticism over the persistent national grid collapses and erratic power supply during his tenure. Just days ago, he apologized to Nigerians, stating that the circumstances were beyond his control.
What This Means for Tinubu’s Government
The exits—whether by sacking, scandal, or political ambition—reflect a presidency unafraid to wield the axe in the name of accountability. The cabinet reshuffles have signaled Tinubu’s drive to reshape his government for efficiency, while the current wave of resignations clears the deck for the 2027 election season.
As more appointees are expected to turn in their letters before the March 31 deadline, Ejes Gist News will continue to monitor developments and bring you updates as more Ministers and Political appointee resign.
Stay tuned to Ejes Gist News for more exclusive coverage on Nigeria’s political landscape.
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