Atiku hires US lobbying firm for $1.2m to boost reputation

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has engaged a Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., in a $1.2 million deal aimed at strengthening his reputational standing in the United States.

Documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice show the agreement was signed in March 2026 by the firm’s managing partner, Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian politician Fabiyi Oladimeji.

According to the filing, the contract is designed to shape perceptions about Atiku within U.S. policy circles and counter narratives associated with the Nigerian government. One of its key objectives is to “counterbalance” the government’s lobbying efforts while promoting Atiku’s leadership style and policy direction among decision-makers.

As part of the agreement, the firm will arrange meetings between Atiku and U.S. officials, including members of Congress, and provide strategic advisory services on policy positioning and engagement.

The scope of work includes lobbying and government affairs outreach to lawmakers, congressional staff, and executive branch officials on issues such as democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and U.S. relations with Nigeria and West Africa.

In addition, the firm will handle public relations and perception management efforts, including crafting messaging strategies and strengthening Atiku’s narrative among key stakeholders in the U.S.

The contract is valued at $1.2 million over a 12-month period, to be paid in six instalments.

The move comes as Atiku is widely viewed as a potential contender in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, amid ongoing uncertainty within the African Democratic Congress, which he and other opposition figures have adopted.

The party is currently facing a leadership crisis following a decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission to derecognise factions led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala.

In a related development, the lobbying firm said it would also engage U.S. authorities, including President Donald Trump and Congress, over concerns that INEC’s actions could undermine Nigeria’s main opposition platform.

The firm further called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that future elections are credible, transparent, and reflective of the will of the people.