Nigeria's Fake Agency Exposed: Arrests and Suspensions

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) revealed the existence of an alleged fake National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office, which had a structure that included an Executive Director, zonal directors, 20 state coordinators, and representatives in China and the United States. Hon. Nwabueze George was identified as the “Executive Director, National Coordinator.” Following the discovery, President Bola Tinubu ordered George's immediate arrest, labeling him the promoter of the unauthorized office.

Additionally, three permanent secretaries—M.S. Danjuma, Nadungu Gagare, and Richard P.

Pheelangwah—were suspended. The ICPC found that the office had been allocated space within the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation without presidential authorization.

The website of the alleged office claimed oversight by the Permanent Secretary for Political and Economic Affairs, further complicating the situation. Some state coordinators listed had previous public positions or connections to political structures.