Atiku hires U.S. firm in $1.2m strategic lobbying agreement ahead 2027 presidency

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has entered into a $1.2 million lobbying and strategic advisory agreement with a United States-based firm, Von Batten-Montague-York (VBMY), to advance his policy positions and strengthen his international engagement.

Atiku is desperately seeking to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027 and the $1.2 million lobbying deal is part of his move to garner support from the U.S.

Documents filed under the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) show that the Washington-based firm registered to act on behalf of Atiku, describing him as an international political figure engaged in governance, economic and public policy issues.

According to the filing, the agreement, dated March 9, 2026, outlines a 12-month engagement focused on government affairs and strategic advisory services within the United States.

The firm is expected to provide counsel on U.S. political and national security dynamics, develop policy messaging, and facilitate engagements with American lawmakers, government officials and other stakeholders.

“The objectives of this engagement are to advance understanding within U.S. policymaking institutions of the client’s leadership posture and policy vision,” the document stated.

It added that the arrangement would also seek to strengthen Atiku’s reputational standing in Washington and counter competing narratives through lawful advocacy.

The filing further revealed that the activities would include lobbying, public relations, perception management and preparation of policy materials to influence U.S. policy discussions relating to governance, economic development and Nigeria’s bilateral relations.

The agreement carries a total professional fee of $1.2 million, payable in instalments over the duration of the contract.

Under U.S. law, entities representing foreign principals in political or policy matters are required to register under FARA and disclose their activities.

The development signals a renewed push by the former vice president to deepen his engagement with international policymakers as Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve.