Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has engaged Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., a Washington-based lobbying firm, to enhance and protect his reputational standing in the United States.
The 12-month contract, valued at $1.2 million and payable in six instalments, includes facilitating meetings with US government officials and members of Congress, as well as providing guidance on policy positioning, engagement strategy, and public relations.
The firm’s role will also involve promoting understanding of Atiku’s leadership posture, policy vision, and strategic priorities among US policymakers, and countering narratives related to the Nigerian government’s lobbying efforts. Activities outlined in the contract include preparing briefing papers, policy documents, and communications materials aimed at informing US officials about Atiku’s positions on governance, economic policy, and bilateral relations.
The move comes as Atiku, a frontrunner for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket, faces uncertainty following the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s recent actions and the derecognition of his party.
This follows a trend in which Nigerian political actors have recently engaged foreign lobbying firms to advance their policy interests and international image, including efforts by government officials and private entities to strengthen US-Nigeria relations and address human rights concerns.
