The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, has officially resigned from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet, citing sustained political persecution and alleged blackmail stemming from accusations of certificate forgery.
His resignation, which took effect on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, was confirmed in a statement issued by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, following some allegations against him,” the statement read.
In his resignation letter addressed to the President, Nnaji expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve but noted that the recent controversies had become a distraction.
“I wish to sincerely thank Your Excellency for giving me the rare privilege to serve Nigeria at the federal level. However, in light of the malicious blackmail and political persecution I have faced in recent weeks, I have chosen to resign to allow the government to focus on its developmental agenda without distraction,” Nnaji wrote.
Nnaji’s resignation follows mounting scrutiny over the authenticity of his academic credentials, particularly his alleged degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
Investigative reports and multiple statements from UNN have disclaimed the certificate he submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023.
Although Nnaji consistently denied any wrongdoing, the controversy reportedly led to increasing political pressure for him to step down, both to facilitate a transparent investigation and to protect the administration from further reputational damage.
President Tinubu, while accepting the resignation, thanked Nnaji for his service and wished him success in his future endeavours.
“The President thanks him for his service and wishes him well in his future undertakings,” said Onanuga.
Sources close to the Enugu state government told DAILY GAZETTE that the search for a replacement has already begun, with Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah expected to play a pivotal role in nominating a new ministerial candidate from the state.
