Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has engaged a Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., in a $1.2 million deal aimed at strengthening his reputational standing in the United States.
Documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice show the agreement was signed in March 2026 by the firm’s managing partner, Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian politician Fabiyi Oladimeji.
According to the filing, the contract is designed to shape perceptions about Atiku within U.S. policy circles and counter narratives associated with the Nigerian government. One of its key objectives is to “counterbalance” the government’s lobbying efforts while promoting Atiku’s leadership style and policy direction among decision-makers.
As part of the agreement, the firm will arrange meetings between Atiku and U.S. officials, including members of Congress, and provide strategic advisory services on policy positioning and engagement.
The scope of work includes lobbying and government affairs outreach to lawmakers, congressional staff, and executive branch officials on issues such as democratic governance, regional stability, economic development, and U.S. relations with Nigeria and West Africa.
In addition, the firm will handle public relations and perception management efforts, including crafting messaging strategies and strengthening Atiku’s narrative among key stakeholders in the U.S.
