President Bola Tinubu has accepted the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, following widespread allegations that he forged his university and NYSC certificates.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed yesterday that Nnaji resigned in a letter thanking the President for the opportunity to serve.
Nnaji’s resignation came days after a Premium Times investigation alleged that he submitted fake credentials to the Presidency and the Senate during his 2023 ministerial screening.
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, reportedly disowned the degree certificate he presented, stating that though he was admitted in 1981, he never completed his studies.
The NYSC also denied issuing his discharge certificate.
While Nnaji has insisted that he legitimately graduated in 1985 with a degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, he accused the university of playing politics with his records and dismissed the forgery claims as a smear campaign by political rivals.
His exit marks the eighth ministerial departure since President Tinubu’s cabinet was inaugurated in August 2023.