How ‘fake’ Made-in-Nigeria office penetrated states, foreign offices

The National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Special Project Office, once touted as a government initiative, has come under scrutiny for allegedly operating without presidential authorization. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) disclosed the office's existence and alleged ties to federal ministries and state governments.

The organization presented itself as a Federal Government initiative operating under the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and its activities included trade fairs, economic forums, SME development, product promotion, and investment-related programmes. Despite its website and social media platforms presenting it as a legitimate entity, the ICPC claimed that the office was operating without authorization and demanded the immediate arrest of its promoter, George Nwabueze.

The organization's footprint extended to government institutions, with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation reporting a meeting led by Nwabueze with a state deputy governor and other government officials. The Anambra State Government also reported a strategic meeting between Nwabueze and state officials, discussing plans for the National Products Expo 2026.

However, the ICPC's claims of the organization's fictitious status raises questions about how such an unauthorised entity was able to establish relationships with government officials, feature in official communications, and become involved in planned economic programmes at state level.