Ex-Minister Uche Nnaji Arrested
Analysis based on 40 articles · First reported Jul 01, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026
The arrest of Uche Nnaji, a former Minister, on certificate forgery allegations could negatively impact investor confidence in Nigeria's governance and regulatory environment. It highlights potential risks associated with political appointments and due diligence processes, which might lead to increased scrutiny of public officials and their credentials, potentially causing short-term market uncertainty in sectors related to government contracts or appointments.
Uche Nnaji, the immediate past Minister of Science and Technology for Nigeria, was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, and also at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, by the United States — United States Department of State (DSS) on behalf of the Nigeria — Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). The arrest follows an ongoing investigation into allegations that Uche Nnaji forged his academic credentials, including certificates purportedly from the University of Nigeria (UNN) and the Nigeria — National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). A Nigeria — Federal High Court of Nigeria had previously granted the ICPC permission to arrest Uche Nnaji after he repeatedly failed to honor invitations for questioning. The alleged forged documents were submitted to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Senate during Uche Nnaji's ministerial confirmation in 2023. Uche Nnaji had previously denied the allegations but later admitted that UNN did not issue him a degree certificate. Premium Times conducted a two-year investigation that brought these allegations to light.
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