Nigeria’s Innovation, Science and Technology minister, Geoffrey Nnaji has resigned following allegations of fake academic records and certificate forgery.
It follows an investigative report which revealed that while Nnaji gained admission into University of Nigeria (UNN), in Nsukka to study microbiology/biochemistry, he dropped out without completing his studies, contradicting his academic credentials presented for his position.
Reports also indicate the embattled minister had forged his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate.
His resignation comes at a time when the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that all graduates going for the NYSC must produce proof of their dissertation or final year project papers before they can undertake the mandatory youth service.
A statement by Special Adviser to the president, Bayo Onanuga said Nnaji resigned after revealing he “has been a target of blackmail by political opponents.”
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, following some allegations against him. President Tinubu appointed Nnaji in August 2023,” Bayo said in the statement.
Nnaji’s resignation while hailed by some Nigerians, has sparked calls for greater accountability of public officials.
