President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive, according to a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the polls.
A circular conveying the decision was signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and issued through the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Ibrahim Abubakar Kana.
The directive applies to a wide range of presidential appointees seeking elective office, including ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies. Other political appointees of the President are also affected.
All officials concerned are required to submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation no later than the stipulated deadline.
President Tinubu noted that the measure is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws, strengthening transparency in the political process, and creating a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.
He urged affected appointees to adhere strictly to the directive, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to credible electoral processes and the consolidation of democratic institutions in Nigeria.