Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has tendered his resignation following serious accusations that he falsified his academic qualifications.
The decision came just a few days after a detailed investigative report by Premium Times alleged that Nnaji submitted forged academic certificates during his appointment process in 2023.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed the resignation late Tuesday via a post on X (formerly Twitter), quoting the minister as saying he had become a “victim of political blackmail.”
Nnaji Denies Forgery Claims
In response to the allegations, Nnaji strongly denied any wrongdoing. He maintained that he is a legitimate graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he claims to have earned a degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry.
However, the Premium Times investigation, which reportedly spanned two years, uncovered inconsistencies in his academic records. According to the publication, the University of Nigeria informed them that there were no official records showing that Nnaji completed his degree program in 1985 as he had claimed.
A senior UNN official was quoted as saying that while Nnaji was admitted in 1981, he never finished his studies and did not receive any graduation certificate.
Adding to the controversy, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) reportedly stated that it was unable to verify the authenticity of the NYSC certificate Nnaji presented in April 2023.
Public Reaction and Calls for Investigation
The allegations have sparked widespread concern among Nigerians, with many demanding accountability and transparency in government appointments.
Opposition leader Atiku Abubakar publicly called for a thorough and independent investigation, asserting that Nnaji should have been immediately dismissed and prosecuted if found guilty of falsification.
“Nigerians deserve honesty and transparency from those entrusted with managing their resources,” Atiku said in a post on X.
Resignations Are Rare in Nigerian Politics
Ministerial resignations remain uncommon in Nigeria. Uche Nnaji becomes only the second minister to step down since President Bola Tinubu took office in May 2023.
Earlier in January, Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, was suspended after public outrage over alleged corruption — a claim she also denied.
Under Tinubu’s predecessor, the late President Muhammadu Buhari, only two ministers were dismissed during his eight years in office, highlighting how rare such political accountability is in the country.
