A major shake-up is looming for Nigeria's Federal Executive Council as top ministers begin positioning themselves for the 2027 elections.
Under the Electoral Act, any appointed official wishing to contest must resign their position before the primary elections commence.
Adebayo Adelabu is a top contender for the Oyo seat currently held by Governor Seyi Makinde. His aides confirm he will resign at the "appropriate time" set by the President or the law.
The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Foreign Affairs may both see vacancies soon, as Dr. Muhammad Pate and Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar have both indicated interest in leading Bauchi State.
As these heavyweights prepare to leave, lobbying has already started in Abuja for their potentially vacant ministerial seats.
According to the INEC 2026 timetable, party primaries will take place between April 22 and May 20, meaning these resignations could happen within the next 30 to 45 days.
Ministers Reportedly Planning to Exit
| Minister | Current Portfolio | Target Position | State |
| Adebayo Adelabu | Power | Governor | Oyo |
| Yusuf Tuggar | Foreign Affairs | Governor | Bauchi |
| Muhammad Pate | Health | Governor | Bauchi |
| Nkeiruka Onyejeocha | Labour (State) | National Assembly | Abia |
