FG Hires US Lobbying Firm in $9m Deal to Defend Nigeria’s Security Record

The Federal Government has reportedly hired a United States lobbying and public affairs firm in a deal said to be worth $9 million to explain Nigeria’s security efforts to American policymakers, especially concerning violence affecting Christian communities.

According to a report by The Guardian, documents filed with the US Department of Justice revealed that DCI Group, a Washington-based lobbying firm, was contracted to engage US officials on Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations and its response to allegations of religiously motivated violence.

The agreement was reportedly signed on December 17, 2025, through Aster Legal, a law firm based in Kaduna, acting on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. Under the contract, DCI Group is expected to highlight Nigeria’s efforts to protect Christian communities and help maintain US support for the country’s fight against jihadist groups operating across West Africa.

The report stated that the initial agreement will last for six months, ending on June 30, 2026. It also includes an automatic extension unless either party gives a 60-day notice to terminate the deal. Financial records show that Nigeria has already paid $4.5 million as an advance retainer, with the total contract valued at $9 million. The firm is expected to receive $750,000 monthly to cover professional services and related expenses.

The decision to hire a lobbying firm comes amid renewed attention in the United States over reports alleging killings of Christians in Nigeria. In October, US President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” citing claims of widespread violence against Christian communities. Nigerian authorities have repeatedly rejected these claims.

US officials and lawmakers have accused the Federal Government of failing to protect religious minorities. However, Nigerian officials insist that the country’s security challenges are mainly caused by terrorism, banditry, and organised criminal activities, not religious persecution.

In November, President Trump further warned that the United States could consider military intervention if violence against Christians continued, a statement that increased diplomatic tension between both countries.