Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has tendered his resignation following growing allegations of certificate forgery that have sparked nationwide controversy and political tension. The embattled minister submitted his resignation letter to President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, citing “personal reasons,” though sources within the presidency confirmed that his decision was prompted by mounting pressure and ongoing investigations into his academic credentials.
Nnaji’s resignation comes after weeks of public scrutiny and media reports alleging that some of his academic documents presented during his ministerial screening were falsified. The allegations, which surfaced through a series of investigative reports and whistleblower claims, accused the minister of presenting certificates from institutions that could not verify his attendance or graduation. The scandal has since drawn widespread attention from civil society groups and opposition parties, who demanded his immediate removal from office pending a full probe.
According to sources in the Ministry of Science and Technology, the controversy had created deep unease among senior officials and staff, affecting morale and the ministry’s daily operations. “It became clear that his continued presence was untenable,” a senior official said on condition of anonymity. “The allegations had become a distraction to the work of the ministry and the federal government’s innovation agenda.”
In his resignation letter, Nnaji reportedly expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation but maintained his innocence, insisting that the allegations were politically motivated. He vowed to clear his name through appropriate legal channels. “I have nothing to hide and I welcome any fair investigation that will reveal the truth,” he was quoted as saying.
The presidency, through the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, acknowledged receipt of Nnaji’s resignation and assured Nigerians that the matter would be thoroughly investigated. The statement also reiterated the administration’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service, noting that no official, regardless of status, would be shielded from justice.
Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is reportedly reviewing petitions submitted by several advocacy groups demanding a probe into the alleged forgery. The commission is expected to verify the authenticity of the disputed certificates and determine whether any criminal offense was committed.
Political observers say Nnaji’s resignation underscores the growing demand for ethical conduct in governance and the public’s intolerance for corruption and deceit in high office. His exit marks the first major cabinet resignation since President Tinubu’s inauguration, sending a strong message that integrity and transparency remain essential pillars of leadership in Nigeria’s democratic system.
