The Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, has resigned from his position in the federal cabinet.
His resignation was made public on Tuesday evening, just hours before the March 31, 2026 deadline set for political appointees seeking elective offices to step down.
Alkali, who is from Gombe State, announced his decision after meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa.
He is expected to contest the Gombe State governorship seat in the 2027 general elections. The current governor’s tenure will end in May 2027 after completing two terms in office.
The resignation follows a directive issued earlier in March, which required all political appointees with political ambitions to leave their positions before the end of March.
The rule is in line with the Electoral Act, which states that government officials must resign before taking part in party primaries or contesting for any elective office. This is to ensure a fair process and prevent the misuse of public office.
The directive applies to ministers, advisers, and heads of government agencies.
Alkali is one of several cabinet members who have stepped down in recent days to pursue political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
Among those who have resigned are Amb. Yusuf Tuggar (Bauchi) and Yusuf Sununu (Kebbi), both former federal ministers.
