Mikano International Issues Firm Rebuttal Against Chairman's Alleged Criminal Links
Mikano International Limited, a prominent Nigerian conglomerate operating in power generation, steel fabrication, and real estate, has strongly denied recent allegations published by Sahara Reporters that link its Chairman, Mr. Mofid Karameh, to criminal activity. In a formal statement released on Friday, the company described the claims as "entirely unfounded, baseless, and defamatory."
Allegations and Immediate Denial
The controversial report, published on April 9, 2026, attempted to connect Mr. Karameh to a narcotics-related incident involving a luxury yacht on the Greek island of Mykonos. Mikano International has categorically rejected these assertions, maintaining that its Chairman has never been involved in, investigated for, or associated with any illegal activity. The company has urged partners, clients, and the general public to disregard the report entirely, labeling it a "gross misrepresentation" of Mr. Karameh's character and the organization's core values.
Three Decades of Business Integrity
Founded in 1993 by Mr. Mofid Karameh, Mikano International has built a reputation over three decades as a trusted entity in Nigeria's business landscape. The company has grown into a major conglomerate known for:
- Manufacturing generators and power solutions critical to Nigeria's infrastructure
- Engaging in steel fabrication operations
- Developing real estate projects such as the Karameh City Project
- Expanding its economic contributions across West Africa
The company emphasized that its standing is built on "integrity, transparency, and responsible business conduct" and expressed deep concern over the spread of unverified information that could mislead the public and damage both personal and corporate credibility.
Legal Response and Previous Scrutiny
Mikano International has announced it is actively reviewing all available legal options and will take appropriate actions to defend the reputation of its Chairman and the organization. This could include defamation proceedings or demands for retraction and apology, which are common responses in high-profile media disputes within Nigeria.
While this marks a new challenge for the company, it is not the first time Mikano or its directors have faced legal or regulatory scrutiny. In early 2025, the company and several directors, including family members, were charged in a Federal High Court case related to allegedly impeding officers of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) during a search warrant execution. However, the current Sahara Reporters allegations focus on an entirely separate international narcotics matter that Mikano insists has no connection to Mr. Karameh.
Clarification on Ownership and Affiliations
In a related development, Mikano International has also addressed claims that former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar owns the company. The managing director of Mikano International Limited, Firas Mamlouk, stated that the company is not owned, affiliated, associated, authorised, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with Atiku Abubakar. The company urged the public to disregard such claims and reiterated its independent business operations.
Commitment to Continued Excellence
Despite the controversy, Mikano International reaffirmed its commitment to excellence across all sectors. "We remain steadfast in our dedication to delivering quality solutions and appreciate the continued trust and support of our stakeholders," the statement concluded. Industry observers will be watching closely as this situation develops, particularly given Sahara Reporters' history of investigative journalism on corruption and high-profile figures in Nigeria.
