Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, has explained that his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet was a personal decision made to protect his integrity and prevent distractions to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Nnaji’s resignation, confirmed by the Presidency on Tuesday, followed days of controversy surrounding alleged certificate forgery and questions about his academic records.
In a statement released shortly after stepping down, Nnaji said his decision came after “deep reflection and wide consultations with family, associates, and well-meaning Nigerians.”
He described his exit as a response to what he called an “orchestrated campaign of falsehood, politically motivated and malicious attacks” targeted at his person and office over the past week.
“My decision to step aside is not an admission of guilt but a mark of respect for due process and the ongoing judicial investigations,” Nnaji stated.
“I cannot, in good conscience, allow needless distractions to cast a shadow over the noble objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The former minister emphasized that his reputation, built over five decades of hard work, honour, and service to humanity, remains intact despite recent controversies.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the trust and opportunity to serve, pledging his continued support for the government’s vision of a renewed, innovative, and technologically advanced Nigeria.
Appointed in August 2023, Nnaji’s tenure was cut short amid investigations into alleged procurement irregularities within his ministry.
The former minister and the Enugu State Government have recently been at loggerheads over claims that he presented forged certificates — allegations he has repeatedly denied.
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