Made-in-Nigeria Project Existed Before Tinubu Government, Nwabueze Insists

George Nwabueze, National Coordinator and Executive Director of the National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Special Project Office, has defended the legitimacy of the initiative, insisting that it is not a federal agency but a long-standing special project that predates the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking amid controversy surrounding the office’s status, Nwabueze stated that the Made-in-Nigeria project has been in existence since 2010 and has maintained links with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

According to him, the project was established to promote locally made products and support Nigeria’s industrial development. He argued that describing the initiative as a “fake agency” is misleading because it was never created as a government agency.

Nwabueze cited documents dating back to July 2010, which he said showed official correspondence related to the project during Nigeria’s 50th independence anniversary celebrations. He maintained that the initiative has operated for over a decade and should not be treated as a newly created organisation.

The controversy follows allegations that the office was operating without proper authorisation after investigations linked to another disputed government-related body. However, Nwabueze rejected the claims, insisting that the Made-in-Nigeria Special Project Office functions as a project office under the OSGF.

He also referenced documents indicating his appointment as National Coordinator and Executive Director in 2025, as well as records showing efforts to secure special project status through the OSGF.

The office has continued to promote campaigns encouraging local production, industrialisation, economic growth, and reduced dependence on imports. Its public awareness materials emphasise support for Nigerian-made goods and the expansion of local manufacturing for global competitiveness.

Efforts to obtain an official response from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation were not immediately successful, as officials requested a formal inquiry before commenting on the matter.

The dispute over the office’s status continues as questions remain over its structure, authorisation, and relationship with the federal government.