By DAYO ADESULU
University of Nigeria, Nsukka Disowns Minister’s Degree Certificate
President Bola Tinubu has accepted the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, following weeks of controversy over allegations that he forged his university degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates.
Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the development on Monday, saying the President commended Nnaji for taking what he described as a “dignified step” amid public scrutiny.
The minister’s resignation brings an end to months of questions about the authenticity of his credentials, which had sparked outrage among Nigerians and renewed calls for a national verification of certificates held by public officeholders.
Early Allegations Surface After Ministerial Nomination
Concerns over Nnaji’s credentials first surfaced in July 2023, shortly after his nomination as a minister. Reports questioned the authenticity of the Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology he claimed to have obtained from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
During his August 2023 Senate screening, Nnaji presented copies of his degree and NYSC certificates. The documents claimed that he graduated in July 1985 and completed national service in April of the same year — a timeline analysts and critics described as impossible.
UNN Denies Issuing Nnaji’s Certificate
The controversy deepened in May 2025 when the UNN Registrar, in a letter to the Public Complaints Commission, stated that the university had no record of issuing any degree certificate to Nnaji in 1985.
That disclosure triggered demands for the verification of academic credentials submitted by all federal appointees.
Then, on October 2, 2025, UNN Vice Chancellor Prof. Simon Ortuanya reaffirmed the university’s position, responding to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request that Nnaji never completed his studies and that no certificate was issued to him.
Investigations Expose Contradictions
On October 4, 2025, an investigative report by Premium Times unearthed internal university records showing that Nnaji failed a virology course (MCB 431 AB). The documents also revealed that he wrote to the university in 1986, seeking permission to re-sit the examination — contradicting his claim that he graduated in 1985.
Two days later, on October 6, Nnaji reportedly sought a court injunction to stop UNN, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and the Senate from releasing his academic records to journalists or investigators. However, the court declined the full injunction, allowing the controversy to persist.
Pressure Mounts, Minister Steps Down
Facing mounting pressure from civil society groups, student unions, and opposition lawmakers, Nnaji tendered his resignation on October 7, 2025.
In his resignation letter, the former minister maintained his innocence, describing the entire controversy as “political blackmail” meant to tarnish his image.
However, the Presidency swiftly accepted his resignation. Bayo Onanuga noted that President Tinubu appreciated Nnaji’s decision, calling it a “responsible act” that helps preserve the integrity of the administration.
A Lesson in Accountability
Nnaji’s resignation has renewed public debate about integrity in public service and the urgent need for stricter certificate verification among political appointees.
Analysts say the case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership, especially at a time when Nigeria is battling declining public trust in governance.
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