Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly retained a Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., in a bid to strengthen his reputation in the United States
According to Punch, Documents submitted to the United States Department of Justice show the agreement was finalised on March 9 and 10, 2026, with signatures from the firm’s managing partner, Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian politician Fabiyi Oladimeji, who acted on Atiku’s behalf.
According to the news medium, details of the filing indicate that the arrangement is focused on reshaping Atiku’s image among U.S. policymakers and countering narratives linked to the Nigerian government.
One of the core goals of the contract is to “counterbalance” the Nigerian government’s “lobbying narratives” in the United States, while also working to “advance understanding” of Atiku’s “leadership posture and policy vision” among decision-makers.
Under the deal, the firm will organise meetings between the former vice-president and key U.S. officials, including members of Congress, and provide advisory services on policy direction and engagement strategy.
“These activities include lobbying and government affairs engagement with members of Congress, congressional staff, and executive branch officials concerning issues related to democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and U.S. engagement with Nigeria and the broader West African region,” the contract stated.
The firm is also expected to oversee public relations and perception management efforts aimed at improving how Atiku is viewed by influential stakeholders in the U.S.
“This includes the development of messaging strategies, narrative positioning, and reputational advisory services,” the document added.
The contract is valued at $1.2 million over a 12-month period, to be paid in six instalments.
Culled from Punch
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