Atiku retains American PR company in $1.2 million deal to enhance his image

A Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., has been enlisted by Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to elevate his reputation in the United States, as evidenced by documents filed with the US Department of Justice.

n

The agreement, signed on March 9 and 10, 2026, by the firm's managing partner, Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian politician Fabiyi Oladimeji, aims to shape US policymakers' perceptions of Atiku and counter narratives linked to the Nigerian government.

n

The contract's objectives include countering the Nigerian government's lobbying efforts in the US and promoting Atiku's leadership vision among policymakers, with the firm facilitating meetings between the former vice-president and US government officials.

n

The firm will provide advisory services on policy positioning and engagement strategy, including lobbying and government affairs engagement with Members of Congress, congressional staff, and executive branch officials on issues related to democratic governance and regional stability.

n

The agreement encompasses promotion, perception management, and public relations activities designed to enhance understanding of Atiku's positions among US policymakers, including the development of messaging strategies and narrative positioning.

n

The 12-month contract is valued at $1.2 million, payable in six instalments, and comes as Atiku is seen as a potential contender in the 2027 presidential election.

n

The development is set against the backdrop of uncertainty within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which Atiku and other opposition figures have adopted, with the party facing a leadership crisis following the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) decision to derecognise factions led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala.

n

In response to INEC's decision, the lobbying firm plans to engage US authorities, including President Donald Trump and Congress, to express concerns that the move undermines the main opposition party in Nigeria.

n

The firm has also urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure that future elections are conducted in a manner that is beyond reproach and reflective of the will of the people.