Minister in Certificate Scandal Urges UNN to Release Academic Transcript

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, is urging the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to release his academic transcript, amid allegations that he submitted a forged certificate during his 2023 ministerial appointment.

Nnaji claims he graduated from UNN in 1985 with a degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, earning a Second Class Lower. The university, however, has reportedly denied recognizing him as a graduate. 

In a press briefing held in Abuja, Nnaji—through his spokesperson, Dr. Robert Ngwu—accused UNN of providing contradictory statements about his academic history, calling the situation “politically motivated.” 

He presented several documents as proof, including: 

A 1985 graduation brochure listing him as “Nnaji Uchenna G” 

A letter from the UNN Registrar, Dr. Celine Ngozi Nnebedum, verifying his admission in 1981 and graduation in 1985 

“This isn’t just about me. It’s about defending the truth, protecting institutional integrity, and ensuring universities don’t become tools of partisan politics,” Nnaji stated. 

Despite a court order directing UNN to release his transcript, the university has reportedly failed to comply. 

As a result, Nnaji has taken legal action. The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled a hearing for November 10, 2025, regarding his application for a writ of mandamus—a legal directive requiring the university to release his transcript and safeguard his academic records. 

Justice Hauwa Yilwa adjourned the case after UNN’s legal team failed to respond within the court’s timeline.