By Obinna Uballa
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, has doubled down on his claim that he graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1985, dismissing allegations of certificate forgery as a politically motivated smear campaign.
At a press conference in Abuja on Monday, September 6, 2025, addressed on his behalf by his spokesperson, Dr Robert Ngwu, the minister insisted he remains a “proud alumnus” of UNN, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry with Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.
Nnaji accused political rivals of weaponising institutions and media platforms to malign him ahead of the 2027 general elections, vowing not to be distracted from his mandate of advancing Nigeria’s innovation and science sector.
“The only authentic letter issued by the University of Nigeria on this matter is the one dated 21 December 2023, duly stamped and signed by the Registrar’s office, confirming my admission in 1981 and graduation in July 1985,” Ngwu quoted the minister as saying. “That remains the official position of the university, reflected in its 1985 Convocation Brochure.”
The minister questioned why, two years later, a letter surfaced allegedly disowning his graduation, which he linked to the emergence of a new UNN leadership aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“When attempts were made to tamper with his academic file, the minister approached the Federal High Court,” Ngwu explained, noting that in September 2025, the court granted injunctions restraining UNN from altering his records and compelling the release of his academic transcript.
He argued that the Registrar, not the Vice Chancellor, is custodian of student records, accusing UNN’s leadership of “political overreach” and “media trial.”
Nnaji’s defence comes amid mounting scrutiny of his academic credentials. A PREMIUM TIMES investigation published earlier revealed correspondence between Nnaji and UNN showing that he failed a virology course (MCB 431AB) and was still attempting to resit as late as May 1986 – nearly a year after he claimed to have graduated.
A fresh confirmation letter issued on 2 October 2025 by UNN Vice Chancellor Simon Ortuanya further stated that Nnaji never returned to complete the course and therefore did not graduate.
Political blame game
The minister has blamed his ordeal on Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, whom he accuses of orchestrating a witch-hunt to undermine a potential rival. But the Enugu government has denied any involvement.
“The honourable minister must carry his own cross and clear his name before Nigerians, instead of dragging the government into issues that are entirely personal to him,” said Chukwuemeka Nebo, Director of Information at the state Ministry of Information and Communication.
Despite the contradictions, Nnaji maintains that his record is “clear and documented” and has urged UNN to uphold its motto, “To Restore the Dignity of Man,” by reaffirming the authenticity of its official documents.
“The truth is simple, the record is clear, and the law is now on the side of justice,” Ngwu concluded.
