The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has refuted media reports alleging financial impropriety in its handling of the ongoing construction of the NASENI Campus project.
In a press release issued by its Director of Information, Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, the agency described publications by Sahara Reporters and Secret Reporters as false, malicious and misleading.
NASENI also criticised the media outlets for failing to seek clarification from its management before publishing the reports, which it said resulted in the dissemination of unverified information.
Addressing the allegations, NASENI clarified that the 30 percent mobilization fee paid to CGC Nigeria Limited complied with Nigerian procurement laws.
While Secret Reporters questioned a December 2025 payment, alleging that it was made to mop up funds, and Sahara Reporters cited a 15 percent mobilization limit, NASENI said both reports failed to take into account the legal framework established by the Finance Act 2020.
The agency said the Finance Act 2020 amended Section 35(1) of the Public Procurement Act 2007, increasing the maximum mobilisation fee for public contracts from 15 per cent to 30 per cent.
NASENI added that the payment to CGC Nigeria Limited was backed by an unconditional bank guarantee from a reputable commercial bank and had received approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in November 2025.
The agency further stated that CGC Nigeria Limited was selected through a competitive and transparent procurement process and secured a Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) Certificate of No Objection after meeting the required financial and technical criteria.
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On the project itself, NASENI said construction at the Abuja Technology Village in Lugbe, Abuja, was progressing steadily.
The flagship Science, Technology and Innovation Complex is designed to bridge the gap between research and commercialisation. It will feature advanced prototyping laboratories, fabrication facilities and co-working spaces to support initiatives such as #InnovateNaija and Futuremakers.
NASENI urged media organisations to verify facts and seek official clarification before publishing reports concerning public institutions.
The agency maintained that its operations comply with due process and statutory transparency requirements.
