Nigeria's former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology Uche Nnaji resigned from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet on Monday, rejecting certificate forgery allegations as politically motivated and vowing judicial vindication.

Nnaji, appointed in August 2023, stepped down after a PREMIUM TIMES investigation exposed forged University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) bachelor's degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates submitted to Tinubu, the Senate, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and Department of State Services.

UNN confirmed Nnaji, admitted in 1981, never graduated, and NYSC disavowed his certificate, signed by a director-general who took office 18 months post his alleged service.

Allegations emerged in July 2023 during nomination but escalated post-report, sparking demands for resignation from groups like Global Gender Safety and Moral Development.

In a statement, Nnaji framed his exit as a "principled decision" after consultations, not guilt, to uphold due process amid "falsehood and malicious attacks" distracting from ministry work. He highlighted his 50-year reputation of "hard work, honour, and service," thanked Tinubu for the opportunity, and pledged support for the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed Tinubu's acceptance, praising Nnaji's "dignified step." Nnaji's team previously denied claims, blaming PDP-linked blackmail over UNN disputes, and threatened libel suits against PREMIUM TIMES and UNN.