Photo: Nnaji –
By Sodeeq Kamsela, Abuja
Nigeria’s former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, has bowed out of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet in dramatic fashion, insisting he resigned to “protect his integrity” and stop being a distraction to the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Nnaji’s resignation, confirmed by the Presidency on Tuesday, comes amid swirling allegations of forged certificates and procurement irregularities that have dominated headlines for days.
In a fiery statement, the ex-minister said he stepped down after “deep reflection and consultations,” blaming what he described as “a malicious, politically motivated campaign of falsehood” aimed at tarnishing his name.
“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,” he declared, insisting his move was about principle, not guilt.
“My decision to step aside is therefore a personal choice; not an admission of guilt, but a principled decision to respect due process. In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just,” he added defiantly.
Nnaji, who only joined Tinubu’s cabinet in August 2023, said he could not “in good conscience” allow scandals to overshadow the government’s objectives, boasting that his reputation of five decades rests on “hard work, honour, and service to humanity.”
Still, the storm around him continues. He has been trading words with the Enugu State Government over accusations that he presented forged certificates, while investigators dig into alleged irregularities in his ministry.
Despite the scandal, Nnaji offered gratitude to President Tinubu for the “privilege to serve” and pledged loyalty to the administration’s vision of a “renewed, innovative, and technologically driven Nigeria.”
