Ex-Minister Geoffrey Nnaji Says Resignation Aimed at Protecting Integrity, Avoiding Distractions

Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, has explained that his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet was a personal decision made to safeguard his integrity and prevent further distractions to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Nnaji’s resignation was officially confirmed by the Presidency on Tuesday, following growing controversy surrounding his academic credentials and allegations of certificate forgery.

In a statement issued shortly after stepping down, Nnaji said his decision came after “deep reflection and consultations with family, associates, and well-meaning Nigerians.”

He described the recent controversies as the result of a “sustained and politically motivated campaign of falsehood and malicious attacks” against him and the office he occupied.

“These unfounded allegations and media distortions have not only caused personal distress but have also begun to distract from the vital work of the Ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” Nnaji said.

Not an Admission of Guilt

Emphasizing that his resignation was not an admission of wrongdoing, Nnaji said it was a “principled decision” to respect ongoing judicial processes and avoid undermining the administration’s focus.

“My decision to step aside is therefore a personal choice — not an admission of guilt, but rather a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process and to preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court,” he added.

“In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just.”

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Reputation and Commitment to Public Service

Nnaji, who served as minister from August 2023 until his resignation in October 2025, said he could not in good conscience allow his personal situation to overshadow the administration’s goals.

He cited a reputation built over five decades — anchored, he said, on “hard work, honour, and service to humanity.”

He thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, pledging continued loyalty to the administration’s vision for a “renewed, innovative, and technologically driven Nigeria.”

Background and Allegations

Nnaji resigned amid an investigation into alleged procurement irregularities in his ministry and a heated controversy over the authenticity of his academic qualifications.

He and the Enugu State Government had recently traded accusations, with the state alleging that he presented forged academic documents — a claim Nnaji strongly denies.