By Our Correspondent
National News – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly hired a Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten‑Montague‑York, L.C., in a $1.2 million agreement aimed at strengthening his image and influence in the United States ahead of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
The deal, according to documents filed with the United States Department of Justice, was signed on March 9 and 10, 2026, and is expected to run for 12 months.
The arrangement is designed to improve understanding of Atiku’s political vision among U.S. policymakers while countering narratives allegedly promoted by the Nigerian government.
According to the filing, the lobbying firm will work to shape policy discussions around Nigeria and West Africa by engaging key American decision-makers.
This includes arranging meetings between Atiku and U.S. officials, including members of Congress and officials within the executive branch.
The firm is also tasked with providing advisory services on messaging, political positioning, and engagement strategies within U.S. political circles.
The agreement outlines how the firm will conduct lobbying and government affairs activities focusing on democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and broader relations between the United States and Nigeria.
In addition, the firm will help promote Atiku’s leadership outlook and policy agenda among influential stakeholders and policymakers in Washington.
Part of the strategy involves public relations and perception management initiatives intended to highlight Atiku’s stance on governance, economic reforms, and democratic development.
The contract states that the lobbying effort will include narrative positioning and strategic communication designed to shape conversations about Nigeria’s political environment.
The development comes as Atiku is widely considered a possible contender in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
The move also coincides with political tensions surrounding the African Democratic Congress, a party adopted by several opposition figures.
The party has been embroiled in 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 statement posted on X, the lobbying firm indicated it would also engage U.S. authorities, including Donald Trump and members of Congress, to discuss concerns about the electoral environment in Nigeria.
The firm urged the administration of Bola Tinubu to ensure future elections remain transparent, credible, and reflective of the will of Nigerian voters.
