Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has entered into a $1.2 million agreement with a Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., in a move aimed at strengthening his image and influence within the United States ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 political cycle.
Details contained in filings submitted to the U.S. Department of Justice show the agreement was executed on March 9 and 10, 2026.
The firm’s managing partner, Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian politician Fabiyi Oladimeji signed the contract on behalf of Atiku.
The engagement is structured to shape how the former vice-president is perceived among U.S. policymakers and to respond to narratives associated with the Nigerian government.
Part of the contract specifically seeks to “counterbalance” the Nigerian government’s “lobbying narratives” while helping to “advance understanding” of Atiku’s “leadership posture and policy vision.”
Under the terms of the deal, the firm will coordinate meetings between Atiku and key U.S. officials, including members of Congress. It will also provide strategic advisory services on policy engagement and communication.
“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,” part of the contract reads.
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In addition, the firm will handle public relations and perception management, including messaging and narrative development.
“This includes the development of messaging strategies, narrative positioning, and reputational advisory services,” the document added.
The contract spans 12 months and will be paid in six instalments.
The development comes as Atiku is widely regarded as a potential presidential contender in 2027, despite ongoing internal disputes within the African Democratic Congress, ADC.
The party is currently facing uncertainty following INEC’s decision to derecognise factions led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala.
In a related statement on April 2, the lobbying firm said it would engage U.S. authorities over the ADC situation.
It warned that INEC’s action “has effectively frozen Nigeria’s main opposition political party at a critical moment,” raising concerns about democratic participation.
The firm also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure elections remain “beyond reproach” and reflect the will of Nigerians.