Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly signed a $1.2 million lobbying contract with a prominent U.S. firm, aiming to bolster his 2027 presidential ambitions in Nigeria.
Sources indicate the deal focuses on influencing American policymakers and stakeholders to support his candidacy amid intensifying political rivalries.
$1.2M Deal Targets U.S. Advocacy for Atiku’s Nigeria Vision
The agreement, valued at $1.2 million, involves strategic advocacy efforts targeting key U.S. government officials, think tanks, and media outlets to shape favorable narratives around Atiku’s governance record and policy proposals for Nigeria’s future leadership.
This development underscores Atiku’s aggressive international strategy, leveraging global networks to counter domestic opponents as the 2027 elections approach.
Ppotentially reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape through enhanced foreign diplomatic leverage.
Atiku Hires Washington Firm for $1.2M 12-Month Deal
Reports reveals that, Atiku engaged the services of a Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., in a 12-month deal worth $1.2 million (about ₦1.9 billion).
According to documents filed with the US Department of Justice, as reported by Premium Times, the deal was signed on 10 March and formally registered with the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) Unit on 1 April.
According to official filings, the U.S. firm will deliver strategic advisory services to Atiku Abubakar.
Focusing on enhancing his visibility and influence ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race through expert guidance.
$1.2M Contract Targets U.S. Lawmakers with Atiku Briefings
The contract encompasses comprehensive congressional engagement, targeting U.S. lawmakers with tailored briefings on Atiku’s platform, policies.
And the Nigeria’s political dynamics to secure potential endorsements and support.
Additionally, executive branch outreach and reputational management services aim to protect and elevate Atiku’s image among American institutions, policymakers.
And media influencers critical to his international lobbying efforts.
Lobby Firm to Influence U.S. Officials on Nigeria Issues
The lobbying firm will “inform and, where appropriate, influence” the US government officials on issues relating to Nigeria.
This includes democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and bilateral relations.
The firm is also expected to shape Atiku’s policy messaging, coordinate meetings with the US officials.
And also manage his perception among policymakers in Washington.
Lobby Deal Advances Atiku’s Vision to U.S. Policymakers
It also prioritizes strengthening Atiku’s reputation within Washington circles through targeted campaigns that highlight his experience.
His achievements, and commitment to good governance amid Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Further goals include countering negative narratives from incumbent Nigerian authorities and proactively building enduring relationships across key U.S. institutions, lawmakers, and influencers to support his 2027 presidential bid.
Lobby Services: Policy Briefs, Congress Meetings, Risk Advice
The services include preparing policy briefs, arranging meetings with members of Congress and executive officials, and advising on political and reputational risks.
Sources report that Atiku Abubakar, after recently defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
This is poised to pursue the ADC’s presidential ticket for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Atiku’s ADC Switch Consolidates Opposition via Vast Networks
Observers anticipate that securing the ADC nomination will propel Atiku’s campaign.
Blending his PDP-era experience with fresh alliances to challenge incumbents in the highly competitive race for Nigeria’s presidency.
