BREAKING: Tinubu’s Minister Nnaji Resigns After University of Nigeria Disowns His Degree
The controversy centers on Nnaji’s academic credentials. The University of Nigeria confirmed that although he was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology and Biochemistry, there is no record that he completed his degree or was ever awarded a certificate. A letter dated October 2, 2025, and signed by Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon U. Ortuanya, stated that the university was unable to confirm that Nnaji graduated, as there were no records of his completion of study.
This is not the first time the university has publicly questioned Nnaji’s claims. The institution has issued multiple letters since May 2025 disowning the certificate he presented. Separately, the National Youth Service Corps also stated that the service certificate attributed to him could not be authenticated.
In earlier court filings, Nnaji admitted that he had never collected any degree certificate from the university, blaming the delay on uncooperative officials. However, through his spokesperson, he later insisted that he is a proud alumnus and maintained that he graduated in 1985. He further argued that a 2023 letter from the university’s registrar confirming his graduation should stand as valid evidence.
Nnaji tendered his resignation in a letter to President Tinubu, claiming that he had been a target of blackmail by political opponents. The President accepted his resignation and thanked him for his service, wishing him success in future endeavours. The presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the resignation had been accepted.
Reactions to the scandal have poured in from civil society organizations, opposition parties, and legal experts, many of whom have called for a full and transparent probe. The African Democratic Congress demanded a deeper investigation into the forgery allegations, while members of the Nigerian Bar Association’s anti-corruption committee warned that the issue poses a serious threat to the credibility of the government.
The presidency has since noted that the matter is before the courts and assured that due process will be followed. Meanwhile, Nigerians across social media and political circles continue to express outrage and disappointment, describing the development as another blow to the fight against corruption and a test of integrity for the current administration.
This scandal raises urgent questions about vetting, credibility, and accountability in public office. As Nigerians watch the unfolding events, the way the Tinubu administration handles this case could shape its moral and political standing in the months ahead.
