The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, has firmly denied recent reports questioning the authenticity of his academic qualifications, declaring that he graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class Honours (Lower Division).
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on behalf of the Minister, Dr. Robert Ngwu, a senior official in the Ministry, dismissed the controversy as “political desperation disguised as academic inquiry.”
Ngwu cited official records from UNN, including its 1985 Convocation Brochure and a letter from the University’s Registry, as definitive proof of the Minister’s academic history.
“Chief Nnaji is a proud alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His academic credentials are verified, documented, and unchanged,” Dr. Ngwu said.
UNN Records Confirm Nnaji’s Academic Credentials
Dr. Ngwu referred to a letter dated December 21, 2023, issued by the University and signed by Mrs. I.A.S. Onyeador on behalf of the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) Celine Ngozi Nnebedum, confirming that Mr. Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with Registration Number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 and graduated in July 1985.
“This remains the official and valid position of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka — properly stamped, duly issued, and unchanged,” Ngwu emphasized.
Contradictory Letter Sparks Political Allegations
Despite the clear confirmation from UNN in 2023, Ngwu revealed that a contradictory letter allegedly emerged in May 2025, suggesting that the Minister’s records could not be found — a claim he linked to political interference.
Ngwu alleged that the sudden denial coincided with the appointment of two PDP-affiliated officials as Acting and later Substantive Vice Chancellors of the University.
“The question every well-meaning Nigerian should ask is: What changed between December 2023 and May 2025, apart from the leadership at the University?” he asked.
Court Steps In: Federal High Court Orders UNN to Release Transcript
Chief Nnaji, through his legal team, sought legal redress at the Federal High Court, Abuja, in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025. On September 22, 2025, Hon. Justice H.J. Yilwa reportedly issued protective orders, restraining UNN from tampering with Nnaji’s academic records and mandating the immediate release of his transcript.
“These are not speculative claims,” Ngwu noted. “They are certified court orders, which should have ended the matter once and for all.”
Allegations of Cyberbullying and Political Manipulation
Ngwu accused the current UNN leadership and certain media outlets of engaging in a cyber smear campaign against the Minister, linking the effort to a sitting state governor’s alleged plan to unseat Chief Nnaji as the APC leader in the state.
“This is not about education or integrity — it is about political desperation, a deliberate effort to discredit a Minister dedicated to Nigeria’s scientific and technological advancement,” he said.
Ngwu specifically called out Premium Times and unnamed partisan actors for allegedly promoting false narratives.
Despite the controversy, the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology said Chief Nnaji remains undeterred and fully focused on his mandate to drive innovation, support research-based industrial growth, and strengthen Nigeria’s science and technology ecosystem.
“The Honourable Minister will not be distracted by falsehoods or propaganda. He will continue to serve with integrity, dedication, and focus,” Ngwu affirmed.
In a strong appeal, the Ministry urged the University of Nigeria, Nsukka to maintain its institutional independence and “distance itself from political manipulation.”
“This is not just about one man’s academic record. It is about preserving truth, protecting institutional honour, and ensuring that no university in Nigeria becomes a pawn in partisan politics,” Ngwu said.
