Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly engaged a United States-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., in a deal valued at $1.2 million to enhance his image and influence within American policy circles.
Details of the agreement were disclosed in documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice, indicating that the contract was signed in early March 2026. The filing shows that the firm’s managing partner, Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian representative Fabiyi Oladimeji executed the agreement on behalf of Atiku.
According to the documents, the primary goal of the engagement is to shape perceptions of the former vice-president among U.S. policymakers and stakeholders. The contract also aims to address and counter narratives associated with the Nigerian government while promoting Atiku’s leadership style and policy agenda.
As part of the arrangement, the lobbying firm is expected to facilitate strategic meetings between Atiku and key U.S. officials, including members of Congress and executive branch representatives. The firm will also provide advisory services focused on policy positioning and broader engagement strategies.
The scope of work outlined in the filing includes lobbying activities and government relations efforts targeting U.S. lawmakers and their staff. These engagements are expected to focus on issues such as democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and U.S. relations with Nigeria and the wider West African region.
In addition to direct lobbying, the firm will carry out public relations and perception management initiatives. These efforts are designed to improve awareness and understanding of Atiku’s political views among relevant stakeholders in the United States.
The move highlights the growing trend of Nigerian political figures seeking international partnerships to strengthen their global standing and influence. It also underscores the importance of strategic communication and diplomacy in shaping political narratives beyond domestic borders.
While Atiku has yet to publicly comment on the development, the filing provides insight into efforts aimed at positioning him more favorably within influential international circles.
