Biography of Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji (Nwakaibie)
Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, popularly known as Nwakaibie, is a distinguished Nigerian entrepreneur, technocrat, and public servant, currently serving as the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Early Life and Education
Born into the family of Chief and Mrs. Obed Nnaji, Chief Uche Nnaji hails from Akpugo in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State. As the eldest of four children, the early loss of his father in 1978 placed upon him a mantle of responsibility at a young age. Raised by his industrious and principled mother, he imbibed the core values of discipline, integrity, and prudent management—principles that have shaped his personal and professional journey.
His educational path began at Santa Maria Primary School (now Zik’s Avenue Primary School) in Enugu, and continued at St. Patrick’s College, Emene. He later earned a degree from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). During his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year in Plateau State, he served with NASCO and Jos International Brewery, where he developed a strong interest in procurement and logistics.
Business Career
Chief Nnaji’s entrepreneurial journey began with a modest capital of ₦10,000. Through sheer resilience and foresight, he carved a niche in the medical and healthcare equipment industry, becoming one of the youngest Africans in the 1980s to procure a CT scanner directly from Philips Medical in Germany. His contributions significantly improved healthcare delivery in Nigeria, with the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla being one of the key beneficiaries of his medical equipment supplies.
Over time, his business interests expanded into engineering, construction, real estate, and the oil and gas sectors. His companies have executed high-impact projects across Nigeria, establishing him as a prominent player in national development through industrial and infrastructural projects.
Political Involvement
Chief Nnaji’s passion for service found expression in politics, where he became a key figure in grassroots mobilization, political party consolidation, and electoral victories. He was instrumental in the formation and strengthening of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State.
Ministerial Leadership and Achievements
Appointed on August 16, 2023, as the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Nnaji has repositioned the Ministry as a strategic driver of national development. His vision has led to groundbreaking initiatives and partnerships, notably in digital innovation, clean energy, youth empowerment, and industrialization.
Key Achievements Include:
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship:
- National Cleantech Innovation Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (CIEE): A platform supporting cleantech startups with grants, acceleration programs, and investor access.
- Tech-Advantage Nigeria Initiative: Equipping Nigerian youth with digital skills and entrepreneurship tools nationwide.
- Clean Energy Advancements:
- Barefoot Renewable Energy College: Established at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, to drive clean energy research and training.
- Solar PV Module Assembly Plant: Commissioned in Nkanu West, Enugu, boosting local solar technology manufacturing.
- Industrialization & Economic Diversification:
- Cassava-Based Ethanol Plant: A joint initiative with Montserrado and FIIRO to advance Nigeria’s bioethanol industry.
- Integrated Industrial Complex in Akpugo: A multi-industry facility nearing completion, poised to create jobs and spur regional economic growth.
- Strategic Global Partnerships:
- Policy Advocacy:
- Led the national push for evidence-based policymaking centered on science, technology, and innovation.
- Championed the alignment of technological advancement with the Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in job creation, clean energy, and the digital economy.
Personal Life
A devout Christian and dedicated family man, Chief Nnaji attributes his success to divine grace and the foundational values instilled in him from childhood. Known for his humility and philanthropic spirit, he remains deeply committed to transforming Enugu State into an industrial hub and positioning Nigeria as a global leader in science, technology, and innovation.
Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji continues to be a beacon of visionary leadership, integrity, and innovation in public service and national development.
