Former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has described her resignation from office in 2018 following the NYSC certificate saga as the best decision she made during her time in public service.
Eko Hot News reports that Adeosun remarked while speaking at a recent economic forum, where she reflected on the controversy that trailed her tenure and the lessons learned from the experience.
The former minister stepped down after public scrutiny and legal questions arose over her National Youth Service Corps exemption certificate, a development that generated widespread debate across the country.
According to Adeosun, resigning helped protect the integrity of the Minister of Finance’s office and prevented the controversy from distracting the federal government from its critical economic responsibilities.
She noted that the episode was challenging both personally and professionally, but it strengthened her understanding of accountability, transparency, and leadership in public office.
Adeosun explained that remaining in office amid the controversy would have shifted attention away from key fiscal reforms and policy implementation efforts at the time.
She added that stepping aside allowed the government to maintain focus on economic planning, budgeting, and reform initiatives aimed at stabilising the nation’s finances.
The former finance minister also highlighted her post-government engagements, stating that she has continued to contribute to economic discussions and policy development at national and international levels.
Adeosun used the opportunity to encourage public office holders to always prioritise integrity and institutional stability over personal ambition.
She stressed that leadership decisions, though difficult, must sometimes be taken in the broader interest of governance and public confidence.
The NYSC certificate saga remains one of the most notable episodes in Nigeria’s recent political history, often cited in discussions around eligibility, documentation, and accountability in public service.
