University of Nigeria Disowns Tinubu Minister’s Degree Certificate – Report

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has denied issuing the Bachelor of Science degree claimed by Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The revelation followed an investigation by Premium Times, which found inconsistencies between the minister’s academic and NYSC certificates and the records of the institutions involved.

In a letter dated October 2, 2025, and signed by Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon U. Ortuanya, the university stated that while Mr. Nnaji was admitted in 1981 to study Biological Sciences, there was no record showing that he graduated in July 1985 as claimed. The letter read, “From every available record in our custody, we are unable to confirm that Mr. Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji graduated from the University of Nigeria in July 1985. Flowing from the above, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, did not and consequently could not have issued the purported certificate in July 1985 to Mr. Nnaji.”

This position contradicts an earlier claim made in 2023 by a former registrar who told People’s Gazette that the minister had indeed graduated in 1985. However, the university later confirmed that internal checks showed no record of his name among graduates from that year.

Documents reviewed by Premium Times indicated that Nnaji was admitted in 1981/82 but allegedly failed to complete key courses, including a core microbiology paper, and was advised to withdraw after missing examinations and resit opportunities. Investigators also confirmed that his name was missing from the Order of Proceedings of UNN’s 20th convocation ceremony held in 1985. In addition, the paper obtained a letter written by Nnaji to the university in May 1986, in which he requested permission to retake an outstanding course later that year, suggesting that he had not completed his degree when he claimed to have graduated.

Further controversy surrounds the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate presented by the minister. The document reportedly indicates that he served from April 16, 1985, to May 15, 1986, a 13-month period instead of the statutory 12 months. It also bears the signature of Animashaun Braimoh, who only became NYSC Director in 1988, two years after the date on the certificate. Investigators noted that the title “National Director” used on the document was not in existence in 1986, further deepening doubts about its authenticity.

When Premium Times contacted NYSC headquarters in Abuja for verification, officials reportedly stated that there was no record of Mr. Nnaji’s mobilization or any certificate matching the one he presented.

As of press time, Mr. Nnaji had not responded to multiple requests for comment from journalists. Efforts to reach him through calls, messages, and letters were unsuccessful. The development has stirred public concern, with some Nigerians calling for a formal probe into the authenticity of the minister’s academic credentials.

The UNN’s official disavowal casts serious doubt on the legitimacy of the documents Mr. Nnaji submitted during his ministerial screening. Legal experts say the revelation could have significant implications for his position if it is confirmed that forged certificates were used. The case adds to the growing list of controversies surrounding alleged certificate forgeries among public officials in Nigeria, an issue that continues to undermine public trust in government institutions.