Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, has resigned from his position following mounting allegations of certificate forgery.
Mr. Nnaji tendered his resignation on Tuesday in a letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed the development in a brief statement released Tuesday evening.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, following some allegations against him,” the statement read.
The President thanked the Enugu State-born former minister for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors. Mr. Nnaji, who was appointed to the federal cabinet in August 2023, claimed in his resignation letter that he had been a target of political blackmail.
However, investigations by media outlets and court documents suggest deeper issues. A document submitted to the Federal High Court in Abuja reportedly confirms that Mr. Nnaji was never issued a degree certificate by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, contrary to what he presented during his ministerial screening. Further findings revealed that both his university degree and NYSC discharge certificate submitted to the National Assembly were forged.
The scandal has sparked renewed calls for stricter vetting of political appointees and increased transparency in government processes.
As of press time, the presidency has not announced a replacement for the vacant ministerial position.
