Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has signed a $1.2 million lobbying and strategic advisory deal with Washington-based firm Von Batten-Montague-York (VBMY) to advance his policy agenda and boost his international profile.
Documents filed under the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) show the firm registered to act on Atiku’s behalf, describing him as “an international political figure engaged in governance, economic, and public policy issues.”
The 12-month agreement, dated March 9, 2026, covers government affairs and strategic advisory services in the United States. VBMY is expected to provide counsel on U.S. political and national security matters, develop policy messaging, and facilitate engagements with American lawmakers, 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 filing stated.
It added that the arrangement aims to “strengthen Atiku’s reputational standing in Washington and counter competing narratives through lawful advocacy.”
The filing also revealed that 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 $1.2 million fee will be paid in installments over the contract period. Under U.S. law, entities representing foreign principals in political or policy matters must register under FARA and disclose their activities.
The deal marks Atiku’s move to deepen engagement with international policymakers as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections.
