Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has entered into a $1.2 million (approximately N1.9 billion) 12‑month lobbying and strategic advisory agreement with the Washington‑based firm Von Batten‑Montague‑York, L.C.
The contract, signed on March 9 and 10, 2026, by the firm’s managing partner, Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian political operative Fabiyi Oladimeji (on behalf of Atiku), was formally registered with the U.S. Department of Justice under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) on April 1, 2026.
According to the FARA filings, the agreement aims to enhance Atiku’s reputational standing in the United States, facilitate engagements with key U.S. policymakers — including members of Congress and executive branch officials — and provide strategic advisory services on policy positioning, messaging, briefing materials, and communications.
The scope of work includes government affairs representation to ensure that Atiku’s leadership vision and policy positions are accurately represented among influential U.S. circles. It also involves countering or balancing narratives from the current Nigerian federal government where they may conflict with Atiku’s positions.
The $1.2 million fee is to be paid in six instalments over the 12‑month period.
This development comes as Atiku — who is widely viewed as a leading opposition figure and potential presidential contender in the 2027 general elections — continues to align with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid ongoing internal party dynamics and broader political positioning.
Analysts note that the move reflects a growing trend among Nigerian politicians and institutions to engage professional lobbying firms in Washington to shape international perceptions and build strategic relationships. In a related development, the Nigerian federal government secured a separate $9 million lobbying contract in late 2025 (with DCI Group) focused on security, religious freedom, and counter‑terrorism messaging.
Legal experts have emphasised that the arrangement is fully compliant with U.S. law. The public FARA registration promotes transparency regarding foreign principals engaging in advocacy and advisory activities in the United States, while prohibiting any direct involvement in U.S. elections.
Atiku Abubakar has a history of similar international engagement strategies in previous election cycles. The current 12‑month contract, which runs through early 2027, is expected to keep his policy perspectives prominent in U.S. discussions as Nigeria’s political landscape heats up.
Based on official documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice and reports from Premium Times, Punch, Vanguard, TheCable, and P.M. News. Additional analysis by Credibility News.
