Nigeria’s Innovation Minister Uche Nnaji Resigns Over Forged Degrees
When Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology of the Federal Republic of Nigeria stepped down on , the nation’s capital buzzed with a mix of relief and outrage. The resignation came a day after a fiery press briefing in Abuja where Godwin Erheriene, executive director of Global Gender Safety & Moral Development demanded the minister’s immediate exit, citing alleged forged degrees and NYSC certificates.
Background: Who Is Uche Nnaji?
Uche Geoffrey Nnaji was appointed to the cabinet in August 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A former entrepreneur in the tech‑startup scene, Nnaji’s résumé listed a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and a completed National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) stint. Those credentials, however, never passed the institutional verification process.
The Forgery Allegations Unveiled
In early October 2025, Premium Times published a detailed investigation exposing glaring discrepancies between Nnaji’s claimed certificates and the official records of UNN and NYSC. Freedom of Information requests revealed that the university had no record of his enrollment, and the NYSC database flagged the service number as non‑existent.
Professor Tahir Mamman, the Minister of Education, recalled a August 23, 2024 government statement warning that a staggering 21,600 supposed Nigerian graduates were holding fake degrees. GGSMD leveraged that statistic to press for Nnaji’s ouster, arguing that the minister’s deceit undermined national confidence in the education system.
- October 4, 2025 – Premium Times releases the first expose.
- October 6, 2025 – GGSMD press conference in Abuja demands resignation.
- October 7, 2025 – Nnaji submits his resignation letter.
- October 8, 2025 – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex‑spokesperson Femi Abati call for criminal prosecution.
Public and Political Reaction
The fallout was swift. President Tinubu publicly accepted the resignation, emphasizing a “zero‑tolerance” stance on corruption. In a televised interview, he said the cabinet would undergo a "comprehensive integrity audit" within weeks.
Lawyer and public‑affairs analyst Frank Tietie warned that the case “transcends mere prosecution; it strikes at the heart of Nigeria’s educational credibility on a global stage.” He urged a full audit of all federal officials whose academic credentials have not been independently verified.
A Facebook user, Daniels Duru, praised Premium Times for “exposing Mr Nnaji’s certificate forgery, culminating in his resignation,” underscoring the media’s pivotal role. Meanwhile, GGSMD threatened peaceful protests if the government failed to act, a threat that became moot once the resignation was accepted.
Legal Implications
Under Section 463 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, forgery is punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment. Legal experts note that the minister’s case could set a precedent for prosecuting high‑ranking officials. The Attorney General’s office has not yet confirmed whether a criminal probe will be launched.
Senior counsel Nneka Okonkwo remarked, “If the evidence holds, we could see a landmark conviction that deters future falsification of academic records among public servants.” The government’s next steps are being watched closely by international observers, especially given Nigeria’s recent inclusion in the World Bank’s governance reform agenda.
What Comes Next?
President Tinubu has ordered the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology to submit a full audit of all staff qualifications within 30 days. The cabinet reshuffle is expected to name a successor by early November, though critics argue that simply replacing Nnaji won’t address the systemic issue of credential verification.
Experts suggest three immediate reforms: (1) mandatory cross‑checking of all academic documents with issuing institutions, (2) a centralized digital registry of verified degrees, and (3) harsher penalties for falsification, including permanent disqualification from public office.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the scandal affect Nigeria’s civil service?
The case highlights a glaring weakness in credential vetting, prompting calls for an immediate overhaul of the civil service’s verification processes. If unaddressed, it could erode public trust and encourage more officials to falsify qualifications.
What legal penalties could Nnaji face?
Forgery under Section 463 of the Criminal Code carries up to five years in prison and a fine. Should prosecutors prove that he knowingly used counterfeit certificates to secure a ministerial post, additional charges of fraud and abuse of office could be added.
Who are the main voices demanding prosecution?
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former presidential spokesperson Femi Abati, and civil‑society leader Godwin Erheriene of GGSMD have publicly called for a criminal investigation. Legal analyst Frank Tietie also urged a full audit of federal officials.
What role did Premium Times play?
Premium Times conducted the investigative reporting that uncovered the fake UNN degree and NYSC certificate. Their FOI‑based research forced the university and NYSC to publicly disavow the documents, setting the stage for the minister’s resignation.
What reforms are being proposed to prevent future forgeries?
Experts recommend a three‑pronged approach: a mandatory electronic verification with issuing institutions, a centralized national registry of accredited degrees, and stricter criminal penalties for officials caught falsifying credentials.