The Federal Government of Nigeria has engaged the services of a prominent American lobbying firm in a multi-million dollar contract aimed at shaping perceptions in the United States regarding the protection of Christians in Nigeria.
Details of the $9 Million Lobbying Contract
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, through the office of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has entered into a $9 million agreement with the Washington D.C.-based DCI Group. The contract was formalized on December 17, 2025, with signatures from Oyetunji Olalekan Teslim, managing partner of the Kaduna-based Aster Legal law firm, and Justin Peterson, managing member of the DCI Group.
The core objective of this engagement, as outlined in documents filed with the US Department of Justice, is to "assist the Nigerian government... in communicating its actions to protect Nigerian Christian communities and maintaining U.S support in countering West African jihadist groups and other destabilizing elements."
Payment Structure and Contract Duration
The lobbying contract is set for an initial term of six months, running until June 30, 2026, with a clause for automatic renewal for another six months. Financial records show that the Nigerian government made an initial payment of $4.5 million on December 12, 2025. This sum serves as a retainer pre-payment for the first half of the contract period.
This move comes against a backdrop of persistent claims, particularly from some quarters in the United States, of alleged Christian persecution and genocide in Nigeria, primarily linked to the activities of jihadist groups in the nation's northern and central regions.
Broader Context and International Reactions
The Nigerian government's decision to hire a US lobbying firm intersects with recent developments in US-Nigeria security relations. Notably, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) recently delivered critical military supplies to Abuja to bolster Nigeria's security operations, underscoring the ongoing security partnership between the two nations.
However, the political climate in the US adds a layer of complexity. The administration of US President Donald Trump has previously issued stern warnings to Nigeria concerning the treatment of Christians. A US federal lawmaker, Rep. Riley M. Moore, explicitly cautioned Nigeria against testing Trump's resolve, hinting at potential military action if persecution claims persist.
This lobbying effort appears to be a strategic attempt by the Tinubu-led government to proactively manage this sensitive diplomatic and security relationship, ensuring continued American support for counter-terrorism efforts while directly addressing allegations that have strained bilateral ties.
