The Federal Government’s decision to spend $9 million on a lobbying contract in the United States has sparked sharp criticism from opposition parties, former diplomats, and ordinary Nigerians.
Documents filed with the US Department of Justice reveal that Aster Legal, a Kaduna-based law firm, engaged Washington’s DCI Group on behalf of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The agreement, signed on December 17, 2025, by Aster Legal’s managing partner Oyetunji Olalekan Teslim and DCI Group’s Justin Peterson, is designed to “assist the Nigerian government… in communicating its actions to protect Nigerian Christian communities and maintaining US support in countering West African jihadist groups and other destabilising elements.”
The six-month contract, which runs until June 30, 2026, includes an automatic renewal clause. Nigeria has already paid $4.5 million upfront as part of the deal, with another installment due mid-2026.
The lobbying arrangement comes amid heightened US-Nigeria security cooperation. On Christmas night, American forces carried out airstrikes in Sokoto State against Islamic State–linked militants accused of working with local jihadist and bandit networks.
The strikes followed diplomatic tensions over allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly described the situation as “genocide,” a claim Nigeria rejects.
In a recent interview, Trump acknowledged that Muslims are also victims of violence but insisted “it’s mostly Christians.”
Opposition Parties React
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemned the lobbying deal, calling it deceptive. PDP spokesperson Ini Ememobong argued that Nigeria’s image abroad should be shaped by reality, not public relations.
“The reality in Nigeria is the best perception anyone can get… Where exactly in the budget is this money? This is condemnable,” he said.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) also blasted the move, describing it as scandalous. ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi said the government was wasting scarce resources to launder its image abroad while Nigerians suffer insecurity and economic hardship.
“No amount of paid lobbying can mask the government’s failure to protect lives and property,” he declared.
On social media, Nigerians voiced anger and disbelief. Many questioned why such funds were not used to strengthen local security or support displaced families.
- “$9 million is enough to clear the entire middle belt of bandits,” wrote Iorwuese Iorliam.
- Bello Hamza Sani added: “True credibility isn’t bought through PR; it’s earned through visible progress.”
- Others, like Hashim Mohammed, argued that while the amount seemed excessive, peace was worth investing in: “If anybody thinks this amount is too much to spend on peace, wait until war breaks out.”
A Different View
However, not everyone is opposed to the deal. A former Nigerian ambassador described the lobbying contract as “a positive and wise move.”
Speaking anonymously, he noted that governments worldwide, including Israel, routinely hire lobby firms to advance their interests in Washington. He suggested the deal reflects improved US-Nigeria relations, citing recent American arms deliveries to Nigeria.
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