By Ebi kesiena
President Bola Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, his Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, following allegations of forgery recently levelled against him.
Nnaji, who joined the Federal Executive Council in August 2023, formally resigned his position in a letter submitted to the President on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, expressing appreciation for the privilege to serve under the current administration.
In his letter, the former minister described his resignation as a painful but necessary decision taken “in the interest of peace and fairness.” He claimed that a campaign of blackmail had been orchestrated by political detractors intent on tarnishing his image and distracting the ministry from its mandate of advancing innovation and technology-driven development.
“Over the past few weeks, I have been subjected to a barrage of falsehoods and fabricated documents circulated in the media by individuals who are determined to undermine my integrity and public service record,” Nnaji reportedly wrote. “While I maintain my innocence, I have chosen to step aside to protect the honour of the administration and allow the truth to prevail.”
Reacting to the development, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the former minister for his contributions to national development, particularly in strengthening Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. The President wished him success in his future endeavours and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The announcement of Nnaji’s resignation was contained in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, who confirmed that the President had accepted the decision in good faith.
Nnaji’s exit marks the first ministerial resignation under the Tinubu administration since it was inaugurated in May 2023. His departure comes at a time when the government has been intensifying efforts to reposition Nigeria’s science and technology sector as a key driver of economic growth and job creation.
Though investigations into the forgery allegations are said to be ongoing, sources close to the Nigerian Presidency hinted that a replacement may soon be announced to ensure continuity in the ministry’s programs and projects.
