BREAKING: Transportation Minister Dan Alkali Resigns, Set to Join Gombe Governorship Race

By Orbit News 24 | March 31, 2026

Nigeria’s Minister of Transportation, Dan Alkali, has reportedly resigned from his position in preparation to contest the 2027 Gombe State governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The development was disclosed by a close aide to the minister, who confirmed that the resignation is in compliance with directives mandating political appointees with electoral ambitions to step down ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the aide, Alkali has concluded internal consultations and is now set to fully transition into partisan politics, with a formal declaration of his governorship ambition expected in the coming weeks.

“The Honourable Minister has taken this step after wide consultations with stakeholders across Gombe State and beyond. He is committed to offering leadership and advancing development in the state,” the aide stated.

Although there has been no official confirmation yet from the Presidency or the Federal Ministry of Transportation, sources within political circles indicate that preparations are already underway for Alkali’s entry into the race, including grassroots mobilization and strategic alliances within the APC structure in Gombe.

The reported resignation is believed to be connected to earlier directives issued under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requiring all political appointees seeking elective office in 2027 to resign on or before stipulated deadlines to ensure a level playing field.

If confirmed, Alkali’s entry into the governorship race could significantly reshape the political landscape in Gombe State, where succession dynamics are already generating intense interest among political actors. Analysts say his federal exposure and experience in public service could position him as a strong contender within the APC, though he is expected to face competition from other aspirants within the party.

Gombe State, like many others, is expected to witness heightened political activities in the months ahead as aspirants begin consultations, build alliances, and prepare for party primaries.

Meanwhile, attempts by Orbit News 24 to obtain official confirmation from relevant government authorities and party leadership were ongoing as of the time of filing this report.

Observers have urged caution, noting that until formal announcements are made by the appropriate authorities, the development should be treated as emerging information.

Orbit News 24 will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide verified updates as more details become available.