BREAKING: Tinubu’s Minister Geoffrey Nnaji Resigns Over Certificate Forgery Allegations
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed Nnaji’s resignation in a statement released late Tuesday.
Advertisements
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, following allegations surrounding his academic and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) credentials.
News Week Nigeria reports that Nnaji, who was appointed in August 2023, tendered his resignation letter to the President on Monday, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the country.
Allegations and Resignation
The minister’s resignation came amid growing controversy over claims that he forged his Bachelor’s degree and NYSC certificates.
While the allegations attracted intense public scrutiny, Nnaji maintained that he was a victim of political blackmail orchestrated by his opponents.
Advertisements
In his letter to the President, he thanked the administration for its confidence in him and pledged continued support for national development.
“I sincerely appreciate Your Excellency for the privilege to serve our great nation. I remain committed to Nigeria’s progress despite the distractions I have faced,” he reportedly wrote.
Presidential Response
Confirming the development, Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated that President Tinubu had formally accepted Nnaji’s resignation.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, following allegations against him,” Onanuga said.
“The President thanks him for his service to the nation and wishes him well in his future endeavours.”
Background
Geoffrey Nnaji, a technocrat and politician from Enugu State, was sworn in as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology in August 2023 as part of President Tinubu’s inaugural cabinet.
Before his appointment, he had served in various public and private-sector roles promoting technology development and innovation policy.
Advertisements
His exit makes him the first cabinet member to resign from the Tinubu administration amid a credentials-related controversy.
What Happens Next
With Nnaji’s resignation, the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology is expected to be overseen temporarily by its Permanent Secretary, pending the appointment of a new minister.
Political observers say the development underscores the administration’s stated policy of accountability and integrity in public service, though investigations into the allegations are still expected to continue.
Advertisements
Source:
Statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), October 7, 2025.
