Forgery: Minister makes U-turn, says UNN issued him degree certificate

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has refuted allegations questioning the authenticity of his academic credentials, insisting that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) officially issued him a degree certificate in 1985.

Speaking through his spokesperson, Dr. Robert Ngwu, on Monday, October 6, 2025, in Abuja, Nnaji described the forgery claims as “deliberate misinformation” and “politically motivated,” aimed at tarnishing his image.

“Chief Uche Nnaji is a proud alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), having graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division,” Ngwu said.

The clarification came after reports surfaced showing that Nnaji had earlier stated under oath that UNN never issued him a degree certificate.

In court filings before Justice Hauwa Yilwa of the Federal High Court in Abuja, the minister admitted that he had not collected his certificate from the university.

Nnaji had filed a suit against the Minister of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), UNN, and several of its top officials, challenging actions he considered defamatory and damaging to his reputation.

Certificate forgery: Minister’s suit against UNN, others stalled

However, in a recent turnaround, his spokesperson maintained that the university’s own records and archives confirm Nnaji’s graduation.

“That fact is not in doubt. It is documented in the University’s records, acknowledged in its official correspondence, and reflected in its 1985 Convocation Brochure,” Ngwu stated.

He cited a letter dated December 21, 2023, signed by I.A.S. Onyeador on behalf of the Registrar, Dr Celine Ngozi Nnebedum, as the authentic confirmation of Nnaji’s credentials.

“Mr. Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with registration number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division,” the letter read.

Ngwu added that the minister remains focused on his mandate of advancing innovation, strengthening Nigeria’s science and technology capacity, and promoting research-driven industrial growth.

“He will not be distracted by falsehoods or by those attempting to use institutions and media platforms for political gain,” he stated.

The Star