Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has explained that his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet was a personal decision taken to safeguard his integrity and avoid creating distractions for the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Nnaji’s resignation was confirmed on Tuesday by the Presidency through the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The move follows allegations of certificate forgery and questions raised over his academic qualifications.
In a statement issued shortly after stepping down, Nnaji said the decision came after “deep reflection and consultations” with his family and close associates. He described the allegations against him as part of an “orchestrated and politically motivated campaign of falsehood” intended to tarnish his image and undermine the work of his ministry.
“These unfounded accusations and media distortions have not only caused me personal distress but have also begun to distract from the important work of the ministry and the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
Nnaji emphasized that stepping down should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt, but rather as a demonstration of respect for due process and the judicial system. “My decision to step aside is a personal choice, not an admission of guilt, but a principled act to preserve the sanctity of the judicial process. In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just,” he stated.
The former minister added that he could not in good conscience allow controversies around him to overshadow the administration’s goals, noting that his reputation has been built over several decades of “hard work, honour, and service to humanity.”
Nnaji also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and promised continued support for the government’s vision of a more innovative and technology-driven Nigeria.
Appointed in August 2023, Nnaji’s tenure ended amid ongoing investigations into alleged procurement and certificate irregularities. The controversy deepened after reports questioned the authenticity of his university and NYSC credentials, leading to a public back-and-forth between him and the Enugu State Government.
Nnaji has maintained his innocence and filed a lawsuit against the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, challenging its recent statements regarding his academic records. The matter is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja, with the next hearing scheduled for November 10, 2025.
