By Muhammad Amaan
The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu, has resigned his position to pursue a senatorial ambition in Kebbi State.
His resignation follows a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, mandating all political appointees seeking elective offices to step down on or before March 31, 2026.
Dr Sununu, who assumed office in the Humanitarian Affairs ministry in November 2024, said his initial mandate was to restore public confidence in the ministry following past controversies.
“We were sent here to redeem the image of this ministry. It is only when we redeem the image that we can have trust. Without trust, whatever we have done will be underrated and will not be seen as an impact,” he had said upon taking office.
He emphasised the need for collaboration with ministry officials to ensure transparency and avoid operational lapses, noting that rebuilding institutional credibility was key to delivering effective humanitarian services.
“It’s only when we do that, then the mission and vision of Mr President to eradicate poverty and provide effective humanitarian services will be appreciated by Nigerians,” he added.
Sununu is expected to contest for a senatorial seat in Kebbi State.
Before his deployment to the Humanitarian Affairs ministry, he served as Minister of State for Education. Prior to his appointment into the Federal Executive Council, he represented Yauri/Shanga/Ngaski Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, where he chaired the Committee on Healthcare Services.
In a letter tittled; “A Heartfelt Message of Appreciation and Goodwill to All My Colleagues, Sununu expressed sincere gratitude for the unwavering support he received.
“I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the unwavering support and encouragement you have shown me since you made me to venture into Nigerian politics. Recall at the tail end of my tenure as the then Secretary General of Nigerian Medical Association, you people approached, encouraged and supported me both physically, morally and financially to pursue your dreams of making me a politician.
“These are rare honours and privilege that I will continue to cherish and will never take it for granted. To me you are all “Doctors for Sununu, D4S” as you named the WhatsApp support group you created in my favour. Your dedication to the medical and health professions and commitment to the well-being of our citizens have always inspired me and made me proud to be your dedicated colleague.
“It all started here. So, I want to take this moment to inform you of my resignation from my appointment as Minister and member of the Federal Executive Council. This decision has not come lightly, but after careful consideration, I believe it is the right step for me as I prepare to contest for the seat of Kebbi South Senatorial District in the forthcoming national elections under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“This new journey presents an opportunity for me to serve my community and country in a different capacity, advocating for the healthcare needs and interests of our people. I am confident that the skills and experiences I have gained, particularly with your invaluable support, will guide me fulfilling this role effectively.
“I am immensely grateful for the mentorship and camaraderie I have experienced from the medical and health community. Your commitment to excellence and your passion for serving others have profoundly shaped my approach to leadership. Most importantly your decisions to remain behind in the country despite the ample opportunities to JAPA. To our colleagues in the diaspora, you represent the good ambassadors of our nation and contributing to our economic growth and cross fertilization of ideas facilitating local growth of our trainings and skills.
“As I embark on this new chapter, I hope to continue to count on your support and guidance.
“Together, let us support the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinibu GCFR to succeed towards a healthier, more prosperous Nigeria, where every citizen has access to quality healthcare and the opportunity to thrive.
“Thank you once again for your belief in me and for your relentless dedication to our nation,” the letter read.
