In a society where leadership is often defined by public office and visibility, it is rare to find persons willing to carve a distinct identity built on integrity, professionalism and selfless service to nation and humanity.
So when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu needed a capable hand to steer Nigeria’s foreign policy, someone who could reclaim Nigeria’s relevance and diplomatic confidence, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs came tops on the list.
And if leadership is defined by focus, discipline and integrity, especially at a time when Nigeria is grappling with multiple diplomatic pressures, including international concerns over alleged religious persecution, then Amb. Tuggar’s leadership style would be an advantage rather than an albatross.
Born in Bauchi State 59 years ago, the seasoned diplomat’s life story reflects a blend of rich cultural heritage, academic excellence, for he was raised with strong values of responsibility, dignity and service—traits that have continued to define his public and private life and entrench an enduring commitment to the upliftment of Nigeria’s glory.
Politics must be running in his blood for Tuggar’s father, Abubakar Tuggar, was the Publicity Secretary of the then ruling Northern People’s Congress (NPC) before and during our First Republic. So naturally Yusuf, the son, was at home being a member of the Nigerian House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011 representing Gamawa as a member of the National Party of Nigeria, (NPN).
ot forgetting that he ran twice for the office of the governor of Bauchi State, in 2011 under the then CPC, and in 2013 under APC. At the House, Tuggar served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Procurement, he also oversaw the creation of the National Council on Public Procurement, and was the member of the house committee that worked on Local Content bill with a focus in oil and gas. He was also as a member of the House committees on foreign affairs.
A graduate of international relations from the United States International University, Yusuf Tuggar attended the University of Bath, and has master’s degree from the University of Cambridge. After graduating, he spent several years in the private sector, first as Oil & Gas Executive for almost 25 years, CEO, Nordic Oil and Gas Services Ltd., then deepened Nigeria’s bilateral ties and trade relation as Ambassador to Germany from 2017-2023.
During his ambassadorship, Tuggar played a key role during the 23rd Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and also facilitated the state visit of the German Chancellor Angela Merkel to Nigeria in August 2018.
In March 2020, Tuggar attended a meeting held with Siemens in Germany over projects in the Nigerian power sector. As Ambassador, Tuggar initiated the repatriation of lost Benin artefacts from the German government leading to the return of 22 Benin Bronze looted artefacts valued at over 100 million pounds.
Since 2023, he has steered Nigeria’s foreign policy through the innovative “4D Doctrine”–Demography, Development, Diaspora, and DEmocracy–working to elevate our country’s regional influence, economic partnerships, cultural heritage, and citizen protection worldwide.
Coming at a time when leadership demanded strength and clarity,Tuggar’s distinguished career is marked by excellence and honour, indeed his career pedigree and unfolding legacy is defined by bold, selfless leadership, with a strategic foresight that continues to strengthen diplomacy, he is laying a solid foundation for Nigeria’s modernisation and global relevance.
Despite facing criticism and ocassional attack, like when the current Bauchi State Governor verbally assaulted him during a bus ride in Bauchi with other dignitaries, Tuggar still maintained a calm and composed demeanor.
His outward disposition and conformity may none the less, rightly or wrongly, mask the mien and mind of a consummate diplomat that is averse to distractions and frivolity, his quiet approach to his enormous tasks reflects his belief in sincerity and selflessness in service to humanity, this is to ensure that his interventions reach the grassroots.
As a willing instrument for the propagation of youth-driven development, and a shared commitment to sustaining partnerships that empower young people across Nigeria , Tuggar recently highlighted the crucial role of youth inclusion in governance and national progress, describing young Nigerians as active partners in shaping both national and community development.
Ambassador Tuggar stressed that Nigeria’s development trajectory significantly depends on harnessing the ideas, innovation, and participation of its youthful population and encouraged young citizens to remain engaged in civic processes and policy conversations that will shape the country’s future.
The Minister insists on due process thus bringing about purposeful decision making stewardship and a clear commitment to communal growth. His remarkable contributions to national development, notable philanthropic efforts, and leadership roles in society has helped shape the lives of many people.
He also champions innovation, collaboration, and communal partnership aiming at integration, thus remaining a guiding light, shaping Nigeria’s mission, posture and affirming the vital role in regional development and beyond.
His impressive professional background and his reputation as a strategic thinker is no doubt a plus aimed at repositioning Nigeria on the global stage, particularly in light of ongoing challenges and opportunities.
As he keeps rising through the ranks with unwavering commitment, guiding and protecting our nation’s diplomatic strength with wisdom and courage, Tuggar’s professional pedigree, coupled with his reputation for strategic thinking, sets him head and shoulders above others, and is a reflection of his diligence and dedication.
Ambassador Tuggar is now focusing on deepening South–South partnerships, unlocking new trade corridors, and expanding cultural exchange programs to showcase Nigeria’s leadership on the world stage.
By whatever indices you may want to measure him, the outcome would be that Amb. Yusuf Tuggar’s name would surely come up on the list of men and women of honour who indisputably are not only excelling in their areas of calling, but are making their marks in their respective fields and making positive impacts on Nigeria’s diplomatic and political terrain.
Nasir Imam, a journalist and media professional, wrote via imamnasiru@yahoo.com
