Cabinet Members Entangled In Explosive Certificate, NYSC Allegations

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has become the focus of a certificate scandal after the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, disowned the Bachelor of Science degree he claims to possess. According to investigations, the institution maintained that Nnaji was admitted in 1981 but never completed his programme. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Simon Ortuanya confirmed that university records show no evidence of his graduation.

The controversy intensified when the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) described the certificate of national service allegedly held by the minister as “strange” and unauthentic, raising deeper doubts about his academic and professional credentials. This development has placed Nnaji at the centre of a storm reminiscent of past controversies that have tainted other ministers.

One of the most notable cases remains that of former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun. Appointed in 2015, Adeosun was accused of presenting a forged NYSC exemption certificate. Though she insisted she obtained it in good faith, public pressure forced her resignation in 2018. Years later, a Federal High Court ruling held that she was not legally required to serve, as she had graduated in the United Kingdom as a British citizen, though questions about ethical accountability persisted.

Former Minister of Communications Adebayo Shittu also drew criticism after it was revealed he never participated in the NYSC scheme despite graduating at age 25, when service was mandatory. He defended himself by arguing that his election into the Oyo State House of Assembly shortly after law school qualified as a higher form of service, but NYSC officials rejected this interpretation, insisting the law made no such substitution.

Another recent case involved Hannatu Musawa, the current Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy. Appointed in 2023, she was alleged to still be serving her NYSC year at the time. Critics argued this violated the Act, but a Federal High Court later dismissed a suit against her on technical grounds, with Musawa maintaining she had acted lawfully.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also faced scrutiny in 2023 following allegations that he submitted a forged NYSC certificate during his screening. The NYSC later clarified that his certificate was genuine, explaining that he had initially absconded in 2006 but was remobilised in 2019 and eventually completed his service, receiving his discharge certificate in 2023. Despite this, concerns lingered over the overlap between his service and his tenure in public office.

Former Aviation Minister and senator, Stella Oduah, has likewise been mired in controversy over her NYSC status. The NYSC stated she absconded after mobilisation in 1982/83 and never completed the programme. Yet, she reportedly claimed otherwise in official documents. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) later filed charges against her for forgery, perjury, and false declarations, which she has denied, describing the allegations as politically motivated.

These recurring controversies continue to fuel public outcry over the integrity of Nigeria’s leadership class, raising questions about vetting processes, accountability, and the enforcement of laws governing academic and national service qualifications for public officials.