PRESIDENT TINUBU ORDERS POLITICAL APPOINTEES SEEKING ELECTIVE OFFICE TO RESIGN BY MARCH 31, 2026

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has directed all political appointees serving under his administration who intend to contest elective positions in the forthcoming 2027 general elections to resign their appointments on or before March 31, 2026.

The directive is in line with the provisions of Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This was contained in a circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON, and issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni. The directive applies to all categories of presidential political appointees intending to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for any elective office. Those affected include Honourable Ministers, Ministers of State, Special Advisers to the President, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, Personal Assistants, Directors-General, and Chief Executive Officers of Federal Government parastatals, agencies, commissions, government-owned companies, as well as all other political appointees of the President.
All affected officials are therefore required to submit their formal letters of resignation through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on or before March 31, 2026.
President Tinubu noted that the directive is necessary to ensure compliance with electoral laws, promote transparency in the political process, and guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.
He further urged all concerned officials to adhere strictly to the directive, reiterating the administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria.
Dewan Nengak Goshit
Head, Information & Public Relations
For: Secretary to the Government of the Federation