ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria’s Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ibrahim Nnaji, has resigned following allegations of certificate forgery, the federal government confirmed on Tuesday. The resignation comes amid growing public scrutiny over the authenticity of the minister’s academic qualifications.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Dr. Nnaji, who was appointed to the cabinet in 2023, submitted a resignation letter addressed to the President, citing personal reasons. However, sources close to the matter said the decision followed pressure from civil society groups and media investigations questioning his academic credentials.

The controversy began last month when investigative reports suggested that documents submitted by Dr. Nnaji during his appointment may have been falsified. These claims sparked nationwide debates on the integrity of public officials and the vetting process for ministerial appointments.

In a brief statement, the Ministry of Science and Technology said: “The minister has voluntarily stepped down to allow for a thorough review of the allegations. The federal government is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in all appointments.”

Legal experts say the resignation does not close the matter. “Allegations of certificate forgery are serious and could lead to legal consequences if proven,” said Prof. Amina Yusuf, a constitutional law scholar at the University of Abuja. “It is also a reminder of the need for strict verification of qualifications before public appointments.”

Dr. Nnaji’s tenure as minister was marked by several initiatives aimed at boosting research and innovation in Nigeria. Supporters of the minister argue that his work in promoting science and technology has been commendable and that allegations of forgery should not overshadow his contributions.

Nevertheless, opposition lawmakers and civil society groups have called for a full investigation to ensure accountability. “No one is above the law,” said Chidi Okeke, chairman of the Civil Accountability Network. “Public trust is at stake, and the government must show that appointments are based on merit and integrity.”

The presidency has not yet announced a replacement for Dr. Nnaji, but sources indicate that a temporary acting minister may be appointed while the investigation proceeds. Observers say the choice of a new minister will be closely watched, as it could signal the government’s stance on integrity in public service.

Political analysts note that this incident highlights a broader issue in Nigeria’s public sector: the verification of qualifications for high-level appointments. “Cases like this erode public confidence,” said Tunde Adeyemi, a governance expert. “It also underscores the need for transparent processes and accountability mechanisms to prevent similar issues in the future.”

The resignation has reignited calls for reform in the appointment process, including stricter checks on academic certificates and professional records. Some experts suggest introducing an independent verification body to ensure that all ministers meet the required standards before assuming office.

For now, Nigerians await the outcome of any investigation into the allegations against Dr. Nnaji. The government has promised to handle the matter transparently and to ensure that public officeholders uphold the highest standards of honesty and integrity.

The resignation of the science minister serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and the consequences of ethical lapses in public service.