Atiku Abubakar Hires US Lobby Firm for $1.2 Million

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has engaged a Washington-based lobbying firm in a $1.2 million contract to enhance his international reputation and influence U.S. policy discussions on Nigerian affairs, according to documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice. The 12-month agreement, signed on March 9 and 10, 2026, and registered under the Foreign Agents Registration Act on April 1, aims to position Atiku favorably ahead of Nigeria's 2027 presidential election.

The firm, Von Batten Montague York, L.C., will provide strategic advisory services, including arranging meetings with members of Congress and executive branch officials. Its work focuses on issues such as democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and U.S.-Nigeria bilateral relations. The contract specifies efforts to advance understanding of Atiku's leadership vision among U.S. policymakers, strengthen his standing in Washington, and counter narratives attributed to the Nigerian government. Services also encompass developing policy messaging, preparing briefing materials, and offering reputational management to address political risks. Payments will occur in six installments...