Nigeria: How New 'Phantom' Agency Planned to Raise N50bn Before Crackdown
[Daily Trust] The alleged phantom Made in Nigeria Project Office planned an international campaign targeted at attracting more than N50 billion into Nigeria's economy.
The Nigerian government recently shut down an alleged phantom agency called the Made in Nigeria Project Office, which had planned to raise N50 billion for the economy before authorities stepped in. The agency reportedly aimed to host exhibitions, business forums, investment negotiations, and trade events in several countries, including Qatar, Kuwait, China, Hong Kong, and Brazil.
It claimed to have secured a launch date for these activities in 2026, with showcases in Brazil and Hong Kong by November. The organization stated it would create permanent platforms for Nigerian businesses to display their products and negotiate trade agreements. The Made in Nigeria Project Office had planned to unveil the Made in Nigeria Warehouse and National Product Galleria in various locations, aiming to position Nigeria as a hub for industrial and commercial activities.
A senior official expressed pride in the initiative, emphasizing its potential to transform the economy, create jobs, and boost local production. However, the agency's claims of government support were called into question after the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission intervened. President Bola Tinubu ordered the arrest of the agency's promoter, George Nwabueze, and the suspension of three permanent secretaries.
The ICPC revealed that the purported office had been operating without proper authorization. The agency's website showcased an extensive structure involving multiple states and foreign countries, including the United States and China.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
