THE resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, on October 7, 2025, has brought the number of ministerial departures under President Bola Tinubu’s administration to seven since May 2023.
Nnaji’s exit, prompted by allegations of forged academic and NYSC certificates, adds to a series of resignations, suspensions, and sackings that have reshaped Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council.
These changes, occurring over roughly two years, reflect efforts to address governance challenges amid public calls for accountability.
Ministers Who Have Left Tinubu’s Cabinet
Since Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29, 2023, seven ministers have exited the cabinet through voluntary resignations, suspensions, or dismissals during a cabinet reshuffle. Below is a detailed account of these departures:
Geoffrey Uche Nnaji (Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology): Resigned on October 7, 2025, following allegations of forging his academic credentials and NYSC certificate, as confirmed by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the NYSC. The House Committee on Education’s investigation triggered his departure.
Betta Edu (Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation): Suspended on January 8, 2024, over a N585 million fund transfer scandal; formally replaced on October 23, 2024, during a cabinet reshuffle.
Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye (Minister of Women Affairs): Sacked on October 23, 2024, amid controversies over remarks defending an accused harasser and threats to sue the United Nations over alleged fund mismanagement.
Lola Ade-John (Minister of Tourism): Dismissed on October 23, 2024, following scrutiny of the tourism sector’s performance.
Prof. Tahir Mamman (Minister of Education): Removed on October 23, 2024, amid criticisms over handling educational reforms and university strikes.
Jamila Bio Ibrahim (Minister of Youth Development): Sacked during the October 23, 2024, reshuffle, with her tenure marked by limited progress in youth initiatives.
Abdullahi Muhammad Gwarzo (Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development): Dismissed on October 23, 2024, as part of the cabinet restructuring.
Context and Implications
The Tinubu administration began with a 45-member cabinet sworn in on August 21, 2023. The October 23, 2024, reshuffle dismissed five ministers, and subsequent appointments increased the cabinet to 47. Nnaji’s resignation, nearly a year later, underscores ongoing concerns about vetting processes, as his alleged credentials issues went undetected during his appointment. The seven departures over the past two years and four months reflect responses to public and legislative pressure, though critics argue for more transparent appointment mechanisms.