Atiku Abubakar Engages Lobbying Firm to Enhance US Image
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has enlisted the services of the Washington-based lobbying firm Von Batten Montagu York LC to bolster his reputation in the United States.
The specifics of this agreement were detailed in documents submitted to the US Department of Justice, revealing that it was signed on March 9 and 10, 2026, by Karl von Batten, the firm’s managing partner, alongside Fabiyi Oladimeji, who represented Atiku.
This initiative aims to reshape perceptions of Atiku within US policy circles while countering narratives associated with the Nigerian government. The filings, available on the Justice Department’s website, indicate a focused strategy to enhance Atiku’s standing amid growing concerns regarding Nigerian political dynamics.
Among the objectives of this arrangement is to “offset” the “lobbying rhetoric” from the Nigerian government in the US while advancing awareness of Atiku’s leadership and policy initiatives among American policymakers.
As part of the agreement, the firm will facilitate meetings with key US government officials, including former vice presidents and members of Congress, and provide advisory services related to policy positions and engagement tactics.
The contract outlines that activities will include lobbying efforts and engagement with congressional staff and executive branch officials on topics such as democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and US involvement in Nigeria and the wider West African region.
Moreover, the firm will implement public relations strategies aimed at increasing understanding among US stakeholders and policymakers regarding Atiku’s perspectives. This involves developing messaging strategies, crafting narratives, and offering reputational advisory services.
Valued at $1.2 million for a 12-month period, the contract will be executed in six installments. This development arises against a backdrop of uncertainty within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where Atiku is viewed as a prominent candidate for the 2027 presidential election, a sentiment shared by other opposition leaders.
The ADC is currently grappling with a leadership crisis following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s decision to retract its recognition of David Mark’s and Nafiu Bala’s faction. In light of this, the lobbying firm announced via its X handle on April 2 that it would engage with US authorities, including President Donald Trump and members of Congress, regarding the INEC’s decision.
This situation is raising alarms about the ability of Nigeria’s main opposition parties to effectively navigate the electoral landscape during a critical phase ahead of the upcoming presidential elections. The firm has urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure that forthcoming elections are transparent and truly reflect the will of the Nigerian populace.
