The Federal Government has entered into a multimillion-dollar lobbying arrangement with a United States-based firm as part of efforts to shape Washington’s perception of Nigeria’s security challenges and its protection of Christian communities.
Documents filed with the US Department of Justice show that the Nigerian government, through Aster Legal, a Kaduna-based law firm, contracted DCI Group, an American public affairs and lobbying firm, in a deal valued at $9 million. The engagement was made on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The agreement, signed on December 17, 2025, authorises DCI Group to communicate Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts and its measures to safeguard Christian populations to US government officials and policy influencers. It also seeks to sustain American backing for Nigeria’s fight against jihadist groups and other security threats in West Africa.
The contract was executed by Aster Legal’s managing partner, Oyetunji Olalekan Teslim, and Justin Peterson, managing member of DCI Group. It is set to run for an initial six months, ending June 30, 2026, with an option for automatic renewal for another six months unless either party opts out.
Financial details of the filing indicate that Nigeria paid an upfront sum of $4.5 million as a retainer, covering the first six months of engagement. The agreement specifies a monthly fee of $750,000, payable in two equal six-month installments of $4.5 million each.
The deal allows either party to terminate the contract without penalties, provided a 60-day written notice is given.
The lobbying effort comes at a time of intensified scrutiny from Washington over claims that Christians are being systematically targeted in Nigeria. In October, US President Donald Trump once again designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing allegations of widespread violence against Christians.
Nigerian authorities have repeatedly denied accusations of genocide, insisting that insecurity in the country affects communities across religious and ethnic lines. The government has maintained that the lobbying engagement is part of broader diplomatic efforts to clarify its position and strengthen bilateral cooperation with the United States.
Tensions escalated further in November when Trump warned of possible military intervention against terrorist groups operating in Nigeria. On Christmas Day, US forces carried out air strikes on suspected terrorist hideouts in Sokoto State, underscoring Washington’s growing involvement in regional security matters.
