Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has clarified that his decision to resign from office is not an admission of guilt.
Nnaji stepped down on Tuesday amid controversy over his academic and NYSC certificates reportedly linked to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). While he insists he graduated from UNN in 1975, reports claim the university could not confirm his academic records.
In a statement released Tuesday night, Nnaji explained that his decision to resign was a difficult but deliberate choice.
“My decision to step aside is a personal choice — not an admission of guilt, but a step taken out of respect for due process and the integrity of the ongoing judicial proceedings. In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just,” he stated.
He also described the controversy as politically driven, alleging that his opponents orchestrated a campaign to tarnish his image.
“For the past week, I have faced a coordinated wave of falsehoods and politically motivated attacks aimed at my person and office across various media platforms. These baseless claims have caused distress and created unnecessary distractions from the Ministry’s key responsibilities and the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.
Nnaji expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and reaffirmed his loyalty to the administration.
“I remain sincerely thankful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his confidence in me and the privilege to serve in his cabinet. His vision for a renewed, innovative, and technology-driven Nigeria is one I hold dear, and I will continue to support his transformative leadership,” he said.
PRESS RELEASE
Statement by Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji,
Former Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and TechnologyFor Immediate Release
Abuja, Nigeria — October 07, 2025After deep reflection and consultations with family, associates, and well-meaning Nigerians, I have…
— HM Uche Geoffrey Nnaji (@ChiefUcheNnaji) October 7, 2025
In response, President Tinubu, through his media aide Bayo Onanuga, acknowledged Nnaji’s resignation, thanked him for his service, and wished him success in his future endeavors.
Nnaji was appointed Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology in August 2023.
