George Nwabueze, the National Coordinator and Executive Director of the National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office, has taken to social media to assert the legitimacy of his office amid allegations from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that it is a fraudulent entity.

Nwabueze posted several documents on his LinkedIn page, including a letter dated July 19, 2010, which he claims was issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF). The letter, referenced NIG@ 50/S. 7/C,3/45 and signed by Dominic Y.E. for the SGF, was addressed to “Buchi George,” who Nwabueze identifies as himself in his previous role as Executive Director of The Hats Centre in Owerri, Imo State. The correspondence acknowledged a proposal for a “Made in Naija” project intended to celebrate Nigeria’s 50th anniversary, advising Nwabueze to forward the proposal to the Nigerian High Commission in Ireland for consideration.

In his defense, Nwabueze remarked, “History and facts, from Made in Naija since 15th June 2010 to made in Nigeria project office that is since 16 years in same OSGF Office.” He expressed frustration over the timing of the ICPC's allegations, questioning how a program that has been operational for 16 years could be deemed a recent discovery. Nwabueze emphasized his commitment to national development and the continuity of the project.

In addition to the letter, Nwabueze shared promotional graphics that highlighted the office's objectives, including boosting local manufacturing, creating jobs, and reducing Nigeria's dependency on imports. The graphics featured slogans such as “Localise national products, industrialise Nigeria” and “Our products. Our pride. Our progress.”

The controversy surrounding the National Brands Development office intensified after the ICPC claimed that it was a fake federal agency. The commission's investigation into the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council led to the discovery of Nwabueze’s office, which they allege was operating without presidential authorization. The ICPC has identified Nwabueze as the primary promoter of this office, which they allege was improperly allocated space within the OSGF premises.

Despite the allegations, Nwabueze maintains that the Made in Nigeria Special Project Office is a legitimate project office under the OSGF, stating, “We don’t know where fake agency comes from.” He referenced an appointment letter dated October 3, 2025, purportedly issued by the OSGF, which he claims confirms his position as National Coordinator/Executive Director. Furthermore, he shared that the office had sought special project status from the OSGF in April 2025.

The unfolding situation has drawn significant attention, particularly as President Bola Tinubu has reportedly ordered Nwabueze's arrest over his involvement with the office. As the investigation continues, the legitimacy of the National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office remains a contentious issue, with Nwabueze's claims and the ICPC's allegations at the forefront of public discourse.