Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has engaged a Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, in a $1.2 million agreement aimed at strengthening his reputation in the United States and countering narratives pushed by the federal government.
According to documents filed with the US Department of Justice, the firm is expected to help “protect and strengthen” Atiku’s reputational standing while also working to “counterbalance” the Nigerian government’s lobbying efforts.
The contract includes arranging meetings with US government officials and members of Congress, alongside offering strategic guidance on policy positioning and public engagement.
Part of the agreement states that the firm will engage in “promotion, perception management, and public relations activities” to improve how US policymakers understand Atiku’s leadership style and policy direction.
“These activities include lobbying and government affairs engagement with Members of Congress, congressional staff, and executive branch officials concerning issues related to democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and U.S. engagement with Nigeria and the broader West African region,” the document reads.
“The Registrant may advocate for policies and perspectives aligned with the foreign principal’s stated positions… including governance, economic policy, and bilateral relations with the United States.”
The 12-month contract will be paid in six installments totaling $1.2 million.
The move comes as Atiku remains a key figure ahead of the 2027 elections, despite internal challenges within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently withdrew recognition of rival ADC factions following a court ruling, adding uncertainty to the party’s structure.
In response, the lobbying firm said it would engage US President Donald Trump and Congress over concerns that INEC’s decision undermines Nigeria’s opposition space.