National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office(MainPro)

National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office: Driving Nigeria’s Transition to a Production Nation Nigeria is entering a defining phase of economic transformation, anchored on a clear national mandate: to turn Nigeria’s population into a production nation . This strategic direction is being driven by the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office , operating under The Presidency , within the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) , Abuja. The initiative reflects a renewed commitment by the Federal Government to reposition Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based, industrialized, and export-ready nation , in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria First policy framework. Institutional Mandate and Strategic Vision The National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office was established to coordinate policies, programs, and partnerships that promote Nigerian-made products, goods, servi...

Choose Nigeria Products Fair & Expo 2026 – São Paulo, Brazil 15th – 20th April 2026 | São Paulo, Brazil The Choose Nigeria Products Fair & Expo 2026 , scheduled to hold in São Paulo, Brazil , is a high-impact international trade, investment, and national brand promotion initiative of the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja . The Expo is strategically designed to deepen economic engagement between Nigeria and Latin America , accelerate non-oil export growth , and position Nigerian-made products and services within one of the world’s most dynamic emerging markets. As Latin America’s largest economy and a leading industrial power, Brazil offers Nigeria a complementary trade partner with shared development priorities, strong domestic markets, and expanding regional influence. The São Paulo edition of the Expo provides a structured platform for Nigerian manufacturers, exporters, and service providers to explore new markets, establish distributorship...

Choose Nigeria Products Fair & Expo 2026 – Seoul, South Korea 3rd – 6th October 2026 | Seoul, South Korea The Choose Nigeria Products Fair & Expo 2026 , scheduled to hold in Seoul, South Korea , is a flagship international trade, investment, and national brand development initiative organized by the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja . The Expo serves as a strategic platform to position Nigerian-made products, services, and innovations within Asia’s highly competitive and technology-driven markets. This landmark event is aligned with Nigeria’s broader economic transformation agenda, aimed at shifting the country from a consumption-led economy to a production-, value-addition-, and export-driven economy . It provides a structured gateway for Nigerian manufacturers, SMEs, and exporters to access Asian markets, attract investment, and integrate into global value chains. South Korea’s remarkable journey, from post-war poverty to a global industrial...

Hon. Buchi George Nwabueze: Visionary Leader in National Brand Development, Driving Nigeria’s Made in Nigeria Initiative and Global Trade Hon. Nwabueze Buchi George, LLB, LLM, MBA, FME , is a distinguished United Nations Ambassador on MDGs , National Brand Development Expert , and Advisor on Trade, Investment, and Economic Diplomacy . He currently serves as the National Coordinator and Executive Director of the National Brands Development Agency and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office , under the Economic Affairs Office of the Presidency and the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Abuja, Nigeria . This federal initiative is aimed at promoting Nigerian-made brands, products, goods, and services , driving the National Brand Development Program , and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global economy. Professional Background and Leadership Roles Hon. Buchi George is a seasoned brand strategist, business development expert, and public p...

Nigeria–Hong Kong Business Summit 2025 and Made in Nigeria Expo: Strengthening Bilateral Trade and Cultural Exchange The Nigeria–Hong Kong Business Summit 2025 and the Made in Nigeria Expo and Cultural Exchange marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to promote trade, investment, and cultural diplomacy globally. Organized under the auspices of the Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja , the events showcased Nigeria’s vision of transforming into an industrialized, export-oriented economy. Preamble and National Vision The Summit aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda , emphasizing the Nigeria First Project and the ambition to reposition Nigeria as Africa’s industrial and investment hub. With the theme “Industrialize Nigeria” , the Summit reflected Nigeria’s strategic goal of transitioning from a consumption-based economy to a production and export-driven economy , strengthening value creation and industrial growth. Held in Hong Kong, the Summit pro...

Commonwealth Fashion Week and Awards 2026: Showcasing Nigerian Creativity and National Brand The Commonwealth Fashion Week and Awards 2026 , scheduled for 4th to 6th June 2026 , is set to be a landmark event organized by the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja . This premier event celebrates Nigerian fashion, culture, and creativity , while promoting the Made in Nigeria brand on a global stage. Event Overview Dates : 4th–6th June 2026 Organizer : National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja Purpose : To spotlight Nigerian designers, artisans, and fashion entrepreneurs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a hub of creative excellence in the Commonwealth The event will feature fashion exhibitions, runway shows, awards ceremonies, panel discussions, and workshops , designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the fashion industry. Objectives of the Commonwealth Fashion Week and Awards Promote Nigerian Fas...

Turning Nigeria into a Production Nation: The Core Mandate of National Brand Development Nigeria stands at a decisive economic crossroads. The mandate to turn the population into a production nation is no longer a matter of policy preference; it is the only viable economic strategy left for sustainable growth, competitiveness, and national survival. In today’s global economy, sovereignty is not given, it is manufactured through industrial capacity, domestic value creation, and control of strategic supply chains. This philosophy lies at the heart of the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office , Abuja, whose mandate is to reposition Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based, export-ready nation . National pride, economic independence, and global relevance are all outcomes of one central process: local production at scale . From Consumption to Production: Rebuilding Nigeria’s Economic Foundation For decades, Nigeria’s economic structure has b...

National Cultural Pride and Heritage; The Oba of Benin: History, Legacy, and Lessons for National Brand Development The Oba of Benin is the traditional ruler of the Benin Kingdom , a historic and culturally rich monarchy in present-day Edo State, Nigeria . As the custodian of Benin’s culture, history, and heritage, the Oba plays a significant role in promoting community cohesion, historical preservation, and indirectly influencing modern initiatives in national brand development . Historical Background Origin : The Benin Kingdom dates back to at least the 11th century , with a sophisticated political structure and artistic tradition. First Oba : While historical records are mixed, early rulers consolidated power and expanded trade networks in West Africa. Modern Lineage : The current Oba, Oba Ewuare II , ascended the throne in 2016, continuing centuries of cultural and traditional leadership. Benin City : The capital, historically called Edo, was a major center of trade, culture, and ...

Royal Niger Palm Oil: History, Economic Impact, and Lessons for National Development The Royal Niger Palm Oil trade represents a pivotal chapter in Nigeria’s economic and colonial history. Dominated by the Royal Niger Company (RNC) in the late 19th century, the trade in palm oil and kernels not only shaped local economies but also laid the groundwork for modern commercial and industrial structures in Nigeria. Understanding this history provides insights into economic transformation, trade strategy, and national brand development . History of the Royal Niger Palm Oil Trade Founded By : Sir George Goldie in 1886 as the United Africa Company’s predecessor Purpose : To consolidate British commercial interests in West Africa and dominate palm oil exports Territorial Influence : The RNC effectively controlled trade along the Niger River and surrounding regions, such as Oguta , transforming them into commercial hubs Legacy : Eventually merged into the United Africa Company (UAC) and later ...

Lord Lugard and Nigerian History: Lessons for National Brand Development Lord Frederick Lugard (1858–1945) was a British colonial administrator whose policies and actions significantly shaped the political, economic, and social landscape of modern Nigeria. Understanding his role provides insights into governance, resource management, and the foundations for national brand development in Nigeria today. Early Life and Career Born : January 22, 1858, in Madras, India Education : Studied at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst Career : Served in British colonial administrations in Africa, including Uganda and Nigeria Lord Lugard is most famous for his administration of Northern Nigeria and the eventual amalgamation of Northern and Southern Nigeria in 1914 , creating the foundation for the modern Nigerian state. Role in Nigerian History Administration of Northern Nigeria Appointed High Commissioner of Northern Nigeria in 1900 Implemented indirect rule , governing through local tradition...

King Jaja of Opobo: History, Legacy, and Lessons for National Development King Jaja of Opobo (1821–1891) was one of Nigeria’s most iconic historical figures—a merchant prince, visionary leader, and pioneer of economic self-determination. His life and legacy provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurship, trade, and national branding in modern Nigeria. Early Life and Rise to Power Birth Name : Jubo Jubogha Born : 1821 in Umuduruoha, in the present-day Abia State Origin : Igbo ethnic group; sold into slavery as a child, later freed and moved to Bonny Rise to Power : Became a trader and administrator in Bonny, eventually seizing leadership to establish the Opobo Kingdom Jaja’s intelligence, charisma, and business acumen enabled him to rise from humble beginnings to become a merchant king controlling trade in the Niger Delta . Founding of Opobo Kingdom Year : 1869 Location : Eastern Niger Delta, near Bonny Significance : Created an independent trading state to control palm oil trade and r...

The Niger Delta: History, Facts, and Economic Significance The Niger Delta , located in southern Nigeria, is a region of immense economic, cultural, and environmental importance. Rich in oil, gas, and biodiversity, the Delta has historically been central to Nigeria’s economy and continues to play a crucial role in industrial development, trade, and national branding. Geography and Overview Location : Southern Nigeria, covering states like Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Edo Area : Approximately 70,000 km², including river channels, estuaries, and mangrove forests Population : Over 30 million people, comprising multiple ethnic groups including Ijaw, Itsekiri, Ogoni, Urhobo, and Efik Natural Resources : Oil, natural gas, timber, fish, and fertile agricultural land Historical Background The Niger Delta has been inhabited for centuries, with communities relying on fishing, farming, and trading along waterways. Colonial Era : Became a hub for palm oil and other exports d...

Moroccan Dirham and Currency History: Lessons for National Brand Development The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) , historically referred to as the Moroccan Riyal , is Morocco’s official currency and a symbol of the nation’s economic sovereignty and stability. Understanding its history, evolution, and economic impact provides valuable lessons for countries like Nigeria in strengthening national branding, promoting local products, and building global economic credibility. History of the Moroccan Currency Early Currency: Moroccan Riyal Moroccan Riyal was the country’s primary currency before the introduction of the Dirham. Historically used in trade and commerce, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Facilitated both domestic and international trade , particularly with Europe and North Africa. Transition to the Dirham 1960s : Morocco introduced the Dirham (MAD) to modernize the monetary system. Central Bank Control : The Bank Al-Maghrib (Central Bank of Morocco) became responsibl...

European Central Bank (ECB): History, Facts, and Economic Implications The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central bank for the Eurozone , responsible for maintaining price stability, regulating monetary policy, and supporting economic growth in European Union (EU) member states that use the euro. Understanding the ECB’s role offers valuable insights for global economic trends and lessons for countries like Nigeria in managing national finance and strengthening local industries. History of the European Central Bank Established : June 1, 1998 Purpose : To oversee the euro, maintain price stability, and coordinate monetary policy across the Eurozone Headquarters : Frankfurt am Main, Germany Euro Introduction : 1999 for electronic transactions and 2002 for physical currency Key Milestones 1998 – ECB Founded : To manage monetary policy for the newly formed Eurozone 1999 – Euro Launched : Initially for non-cash transactions; replaced national currencies electronically 2002 – Euro Bankno...

International Monetary Fund (IMF): History, Facts, and Economic Implications The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a key global financial institution that promotes international monetary cooperation, financial stability, and economic growth . Understanding its history, structure, and role provides insights for Nigeria in trade, fiscal management, and national economic development. History of the IMF Founded : July 1944, at the Bretton Woods Conference in New Hampshire, USA Purpose : To stabilize international exchange rates, facilitate balanced global trade, and provide financial assistance to member countries Operational Since : December 27, 1945, with 29 original member countries Headquarters : Washington, D.C., United States Key Milestones 1945 – IMF Established : To rebuild post-World War II economies and promote global financial stability 1960s – Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) : Introduced as international reserve assets 1971 – End of Bretton Woods Fixed Exchange Rates : IMF a...