Minister’s Academic Credentials Under Scrutiny: New Evidence Reveals Discrepancies
Fresh documentation has emerged challenging the authenticity of academic credentials presented by Uche Nnaji, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, appointed in 2023.
According to newly uncovered correspondence between Nnaji and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), the minister was still attempting to complete his degree requirements months after he claimed to have graduated and begun national service.
Records show that while Nnaji enrolled at UNN in 1981 to study microbiology/biochemistry, he failed to complete a crucial virology course (MCB 431AB). A letter dated November 8, 1985, from the university registrar informed Nnaji of his failure in the September 1985 supplementary examinations, contradicting his claim of graduating in July 1985.
The paper trail reveals multiple unsuccessful attempts by Nnaji to re-sit the examination. In a January 3, 1986 letter, he formally requested to retake the course, submitting the required N4 fee. After missing the scheduled April 1986 examination, he wrote again on May 19, 1986, citing health issues and requesting another opportunity during the September 1986 supplementary examinations.
Further inconsistencies have surfaced in Nnaji’s documentation. His notification of result claims a July 1985 graduation with second-class honors (lower division), while his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate indicates service commencement in April 1985 – three months before his purported graduation.
A recent letter dated October 2, 2025, from UNN Vice-Chancellor Simon Ortuanya, responding to a freedom of information request, confirmed that Nnaji never completed the outstanding course.
The revelations stem from a two-year investigation by PREMIUM TIMES, which has prompted questions about the minister’s screening process by the State Security Service (SSS) and Senate confirmation in 2023. The controversy has intensified since Nnaji’s appointment by President Bola Tinubu in July 2023 as part of his initial 28-member cabinet.
Following the public disclosure, Nnaji has acknowledged that UNN never issued him a degree certificate. The minister was notably absent from a press conference scheduled by his office to address these allegations, while public reaction to the scandal continues to mount.
