Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has secured a $1.2 million lobbying and strategic advisory contract with the Washington, D.C.-based firm Von Batten-Montague-York (VBMY) to bolster his international influence and policy advocacy ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election. The agreement, filed under the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), marks a significant step in Atiku’s efforts to engage U.S. policymakers and strengthen his political positioning on the global stage. The contract, dated March 9, 2026, outlines a 12-month engagement focused on government affairs, strategic communications, and policy advocacy within the United States.
The filing describes Atiku as an international political figure actively involved in governance, economic policy, and public affairs. VBMY will provide advisory services on U.S. political and national security dynamics, craft policy messaging, and facilitate direct engagements with American lawmakers, government officials, and key stakeholders. The firm’s mandate includes lobbying, public relations, perception management, and the development of policy materials aimed at shaping U.S. discourse on Nigeria’s governance, economic development, and bilateral relations.
According to the FARA document, the primary goal of the engagement is to enhance understanding within U.S. policymaking institutions of Atiku’s leadership approach and policy vision. The arrangement also aims to improve his reputational standing in Washington and counter any negative narratives through lawful advocacy. The $1.2 million fee will be paid in instalments over the course of the contract, as required under U.S. law for foreign principals engaging in political or policy-related activities.
Under FARA, all entities representing foreign clients in U.S. political or policy matters must register and disclose their activities transparently. This requirement ensures accountability and public awareness of foreign influence in American policymaking. Atiku’s registration with FARA underscores the seriousness of his international outreach and signals a strategic shift toward leveraging diplomatic and political channels beyond Nigeria’s borders.
The move reflects Atiku’s determination to position himself as a credible alternative to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election. By investing in high-level strategic advisory services, he seeks to build alliances with influential U.S. policymakers who may impact Nigeria’s international standing and economic partnerships. This initiative also highlights the growing importance of foreign engagement in Nigeria’s political landscape, where international perceptions can influence domestic support and investor confidence.
As Nigeria navigates economic challenges and political transitions, Atiku’s international lobbying effort may play a crucial role in shaping his campaign narrative and securing global backing. The engagement with VBMY is expected to enhance his visibility and credibility in Washington, potentially opening doors to diplomatic and economic opportunities that could benefit his political ambitions. This development sets the stage for a more globally connected Nigerian political contest in the years ahead.
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