MINISTER OF INNOVATION, SCIENCE, AND TECHNOLOGY RESIGNS AMID CERTIFICATE FORGERY ALLEGATIONS
The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, has resigned from President Bola Tinubu's cabinet, effective Tuesday, October 7, 2025. The resignation comes amid allegations of certificate forgery and controversy surrounding his academic qualifications from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu has accepted Nnaji's resignation, thanking him for his service and wishing him well in future endeavors. Nnaji, in his resignation letter, cited persistent blackmail and political attacks as reasons for his decision.
Background of the Controversy
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, had been embroiled in a dispute with Nnaji over allegations of certificate forgery. The institution denied issuing the degree certificate he submitted to the Senate during his ministerial screening in August 2023. A court ruling allowed the university to release Nnaji's academic records in response to a freedom of information request, fueling further public scrutiny.
Reactions and Implications
Nnaji's resignation has sparked conversations about integrity and accountability in public office. Governance experts and civil society organizations have welcomed his resignation, calling for a thorough inquiry into the allegations. Some have also urged the Federal Government to verify the credentials of all serving ministers and top officials to prevent similar scandals in the future.
The opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) has seized on the situation to question the credibility of the Tinubu cabinet, demanding a full audit of all ministerial appointees' academic records. The party accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of condoning unqualified individuals in leadership positions, undermining Nigeria's global reputation.
