Abuja — Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has tendered his resignation following mounting controversy surrounding allegations of forged academic and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates.
The resignation, confirmed by senior government sources on Tuesday, marks a major development in the ongoing scandal that has cast a shadow over the Ministry of Science and Technology and raised fresh questions about integrity within the federal cabinet.
According to reports, Nnaji’s decision followed the conclusion of a two-year investigation which allegedly uncovered discrepancies in his academic records from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and inconsistencies in documents purportedly issued by the NYSC.
Sources close to the Presidency disclosed that the minister submitted his resignation letter late Monday night, citing “personal reasons” — though officials say the move was prompted by growing pressure from both the public and within the administration.
A statement from the Ministry is expected later today, while the Presidency has yet to issue an official comment on whether Nnaji’s resignation has been formally accepted.
The investigation, reportedly initiated by security and regulatory agencies in 2023, examined the authenticity of Nnaji’s university transcripts and NYSC discharge certificate after whistleblower petitions questioned their legitimacy.
Nnaji, who was appointed in August 2023, had previously denied any wrongdoing, describing the allegations as politically motivated. However, recent findings appear to have intensified scrutiny, culminating in his decision to step down.
Political observers say the resignation underscores the government’s growing struggle with credibility issues among top officials, particularly as the administration faces increased public demand for transparency and ethical governance.
Further details regarding the investigation’s findings and possible legal actions are expected to emerge in the coming days.
