The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, on Monday, September 6, 2025, declared that he graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1985.
Nnaji therefore vowed that he will not be distracted by lies of alleged certificate forgery or by those who weaponise institutions and media platforms for political gain.
This was as he said that he remains focused on his work and mandate, advancing innovation, building Nigeria’s science and technology capacity, and restoring the nation’s confidence in research-driven industrial growth.
Nnaji, who stated these at a press conference in Abuja that was addressed by Dr. Robert Ngwu, spokesman to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, insisted that he 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, with Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.
He further said that the fact is not in doubt, saying that it is documented in the University’s own records, acknowledged in its official correspondence, and reflected in its 1985 Convocation Brochure, which remains part of UNN’s permanent archives
According to Nnaji; “The only authentic letter issued by the University of Nigeria on this matter is the one dated 21 December 2023, duly stamped and signed by Mrs I.A.S. Onyeador for the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs) Celine Ngozi Nnebedum.
“That official communication, written in response to People’s Gazette inquiry, confirmed that: 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.
“That was the official position of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, properly stamped, duly issued, and still valid.
Two years later, in May 2025, a purported letter surfaced, allegedly written by the University, suddenly claiming that there were “no records” of the Minister’s graduation.
“The question every Nigerian should ask is simple and logical: What changed between December 2023 and May 2025 – apart from the fact that two card-carrying members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) suddenly emerged as Acting Vice Chancellor and then Vice Chancellor of the University?
“It is on that same political foundation that Premium Times built its false story. By academic convention worldwide, the Registrar, not the Vice Chancellor, is the custodian of all examination and graduation records.
“Any attempt by a Vice Chancellor to assume that role is an aberration in university protocol and, in this case, an obvious political overreach.
Dr Ngwu explained that when Nnaji got wind of attempts within the University to tamper with or alter his academic file, he immediately sought legal redress by approaching the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Abuja, in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025, presided over by Hon. Justice H. J. Yilwa.
He further said; “On 22 September 2025, the Court granted a series of protective orders, including: An injunction restraining the Vice Chancellor and management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, from tampering or continuing to tamper with the Honourable Minister’s academic records.
“An order of mandamus compelling the University to release his academic transcript, and a directive to the supervising authorities to ensure compliance through their disciplinary powers.
“These are not speculative claims; they are certified orders of the Federal High Court of Nigeria. That alone should settle the matter. Unfortunately, instead of adhering strictly to the valid court order, the Vice Chancellor, a lawyer by profession, resorted to cyberbullying and a politically motivated media trial against Chief Uche Nnaji.
“It is increasingly clear that this entire episode is not about education or integrity; it is about political desperation, disguised as academic inquiry.
“The timing, the sources, the false documents, and the paid narratives all point to a coordinated campaign to drag a reputable public servant into the mud of partisan politics.
But Nigerians are wiser than that. The facts are before the courts, the documents are public, and the truth cannot be buried under political propaganda.
“The University officially confirmed this in writing in December 2023. It’s reflected in its 1985 Convocation Brochure, which remains part of UNN’s permanent archives.
“Any other claim or document to the contrary is false, malicious, and politically motivated,” he said.
The Minister therefore called on the University of Nigeria to uphold its proud motto, “To Restore the Dignity of Man,” just as he stressed that the institution must reclaim its integrity by distancing itself from political manipulation and reaffirming the authenticity of its own official record.
He said that this is not just about one man’s academic record; but about protecting truth, preserving institutional honour, and ensuring that no university in Nigeria ever becomes a pawn in partisan politics.
“The truth is simple, the record is clear, and the law is now on the side of justice,” Ngwu concluded.
