Atiku Engages US Lobbyists for $1.2m to Bolster Image,Counter Abuja’s Influence

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has enlisted a prominent Washington lobbying firm for $1.2 million to safeguard his reputation in the United States and push back against what he sees as Nigerian government lobbying efforts.

The 12-month contract with Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., signed on March 9 and 10, 2026, by firm managing partner Karl Von Batten and Nigerian politician Fabiyi Oladimeji, was disclosed in filings with the US Department of Justice under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). The deal, payable in six installments, aims to “protect and strengthen” Atiku’s “reputational standing” amid ongoing political tensions in Nigeria.

A core objective is to “counterbalance” lobbying narratives from the Nigerian Federal Government (FG) in US circles. The firm will arrange meetings between Atiku and US officials, including Members of Congress, congressional staff, and executive branch representatives. Topics span democratic governance, regional stability in West Africa, economic development, and US-Nigeria relations.

Von Batten-Montague-York will also offer “guidance on policy positioning, reputational considerations, and engagement strategy.” This includes crafting messaging, narrative positioning, and public relations to promote Atiku’s “leadership posture and policy vision” among US policymakers.

ADVERTISEMENT

The contract details public advocacy efforts, such as preparing briefing memoranda, policy papers, talking points, and informational materials for distribution. These will highlight Atiku’s perspectives on governance, economic policy, and bilateral ties, positioning him as a key voice on Nigeria’s future.

This high-stakes engagement underscores Atiku’s strategy to amplify his influence internationally, potentially shaping US views on Nigeria’s leadership ahead of key bilateral talks.