Questions about the authenticity of academic qualifications and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) credentials have again stirred controversy in Nigeria’s political circle, as six serving and former ministers face scrutiny over their educational and service records.
The development has reignited national debate on transparency and integrity in public office, with many Nigerians calling for stricter vetting of government appointees.
Nnaji’s Academic Records in Dispute
Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, has been at the centre of a legal battle following reports that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), disowned the Bachelor of Science degree certificate he claimed to hold.
According to PREMIUM TIMES, the institution stated that Nnaji did not complete his studies and was never issued a certificate. In reaction, the minister reportedly filed a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025, seeking to stop the university from releasing his academic records.
A Federal High Court in Abuja, however, dismissed the motion, ruling that the university had the right to publish authentic information regarding its former students.
Adeosun’s NYSC Exemption Controversy
Kemi Adeosun’s case remains one of the most prominent examples of certificate scandals in Nigeria’s recent history. Appointed Minister of Finance in 2015, she was accused of presenting a forged NYSC exemption certificate.
Investigations later revealed inconsistencies in the document, including the signature of a former NYSC Director-General who had already left office before the date on the certificate.
Under mounting pressure, Adeosun resigned in September 2018, stating that she obtained the document “in good faith” and without any intent to deceive.
Adebayo Shittu and Non-Participation Allegation
Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, also faced public backlash for failing to participate in the NYSC scheme after graduating in 1978.
Although he was not accused of forgery, critics argued that his non-compliance violated the NYSC Act. Shittu defended his position, claiming that his early involvement in politics was a form of national service.
Hannatu Musawa’s NYSC Status Questioned
Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, came under fire in 2023 following allegations that she was still a serving NYSC member at the time of her appointment.
Critics maintained that the move contravened the NYSC Act, which prohibits corps members from holding political or ministerial positions.
The Nigerian Bar Association later filed a lawsuit seeking her removal, but in April 2024, Justice James Omotosho dismissed the case, ruling that her appointment did not constitute a legal breach.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo Cleared After Allegation
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo was accused during his 2023 ministerial screening of presenting a forged NYSC discharge certificate. Reports pointed to discrepancies in the document’s dates and serial numbers.
However, the NYSC later issued a clarification confirming the authenticity of his certificate, effectively clearing him of wrongdoing.
Stella Oduah and Longstanding NYSC Debate
Former Minister of Aviation and ex-senator, Stella Oduah, has faced persistent controversy over her NYSC status. According to the Corps, she was mobilised in the 1982/83 batch but reportedly absconded shortly after the orientation exercise, never completing her service year or receiving a discharge certificate.
Despite repeated denials, the matter continues to resurface, casting a shadow over her public career.
Growing Calls for Accountability
Civil society organisations and legal experts have renewed calls for the government to tighten verification processes for political appointments.
A legal analyst, Barrister Ibrahim Okon, said: “It is unacceptable that people who make laws and manage national resources cannot maintain basic integrity in their own records.”
He added that the recurring pattern “undermines public confidence in governance and sets a poor example for young Nigerians.”
Observers note that while some of the cases have been resolved, others highlight a systemic failure in Nigeria’s vetting and institutional accountability mechanisms.
