Amid rising political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, Atiku Abubakar has reportedly entered a $1.2 million lobbying deal with a U.S. firm.
Documents filed with the US Department of Justice show that Atiku engaged Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., a Washington-based lobbying firm, under a 12-month contract signed on March 10 and registered with the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) Unit on April 1.
Under the arrangement, the firm is expected to provide strategic advisory services, facilitate engagement with U.S. congressional and executive officials, and support reputational management targeting American policymakers and institutions.
It will also be tasked with engaging U.S. government stakeholders on issues concerning Nigeria, including democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and bilateral relations.
The contract further outlines efforts to promote Atiku’s policy positions, arrange meetings with U.S. officials, and strengthen his visibility and influence within Washington policy circles.
Key objectives include advancing understanding of his leadership agenda, improving his standing among U.S. decision-makers, countering competing political narratives, and building structured relationships across key American institutions.
Services covered in the agreement also include the preparation of policy briefs, coordination of high-level meetings with U.S. officials, and advisory support on political and reputational risks.
The development comes months after Atiku’s reported move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ADC, where he is expected to be part of a competitive race for the party’s presidential ticket, potentially alongside former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The lobbying effort is seen as part of broader attempts to address longstanding concerns around Atiku’s international perception, including past scrutiny linked to his interactions in the United States.
Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 1999 to 2007, has contested the presidency on multiple occasions, with the latest political realignment setting the stage for the 2027 general elections.
