Chris Ngige to Face EFCC Over Alleged Contract Fraud

Abuja, December 12, 2025 – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated criminal proceedings against former Labour and Productivity Minister Chris Ngige over alleged abuse of office in awarding multiple government contracts.

According to a charge sighted by Channels Television, Ngige is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday at the FCT High Court, Gwarimpa, Abuja. The document, dated October 31 and filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Sylvanus Tahirand five other lawyers on behalf of the EFCC, details allegations that Ngige conferred undue advantage on associates through contract awards while serving as supervising Minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).

In the first count, the EFCC alleges that between September 2015 and May 2023, Ngige awarded seven contracts for consultancy, training, and supply to Cezimo Nigeria Limited, a company linked to his associate Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, totaling ₦366,470,920.68, an act said to contravene Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Other companies named in the charge include:

• Zitacom Nigeria Limited, also linked to Charles, which allegedly received eight contracts worth ₦583,682,686.00.

• Jeff & Xris Limited, linked to Nwosu Jideofor Chukwunwike, allegedly awarded eight contracts totaling ₦362,043,163.16.

• Olde English Consolidated Limited, linked to Uzoma Igbonwa, allegedly received four contracts totaling ₦668,138,141.00.

• Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, also linked to Igbonwa, allegedly received four contracts worth ₦161,604,625.00.

Ngige is expected to enter his plea when the case comes before the FCT High Court on Friday.

The EFCC’s action comes amid heightened scrutiny of public officials accused of exploiting government resources for personal or associate gain.