A leading US lobbying firm has revealed details of a productive phone conversation between former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a senior, influential member of the United States Congress, during which the lawmaker extended a personal invitation for Atiku to visit Capitol Hill as his guest.
According to Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., the Washington-based firm representing Atiku’s interests, the former Vice President graciously accepted the invitation but politely explained that pressing national matters require his presence in Nigeria at this time. He, however, assured the Congressman that he would make the visit soon.
The firm described Atiku’s response as that of “a statesman shaped by experience, guided by discipline, and grounded in the temperament required for leadership — qualities often associated with America’s most respected Presidents.”
This development comes amid heightened political rhetoric in Nigeria. In a video released on April 30, 2026, President Bola Tinubu appeared to accuse political opponents, including references that the lobbying firm interpreted as targeting Atiku, of weaponising insecurity and using it as a tool to remove him from power.
President Tinubu described himself as “a very stubborn politician” who “refuse[s] to go” and is prepared to contest the 2027 election.
In its strongly worded statement, Von Batten-Montague-York contrasted the two leaders’ approaches. The firm noted that Atiku has positioned himself as a leader with whom both the US Congress and the Trump administration can build a productive, mutually beneficial relationship.
It expressed regret that President Tinubu appears to be showing “signs of political desperation and clinging to power at all costs,” even as ordinary Nigerians continue to bear the brunt of insecurity and economic hardship.
The lobbying firm, which signed a $1.2 million contract with associates of Atiku Abubakar in March 2026, has been actively engaging US policymakers on issues of democratic governance, electoral integrity, regional stability, and the worsening security situation in Nigeria, including attacks on Christians and other citizens in parts of the North.
Political analysts say the invitation to Atiku underscores growing international interest in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While Atiku has not formally declared his candidacy, his recent activities and alliance-building moves, including within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), suggest he remains a significant figure in opposition politics.
Further details on the timing of Atiku’s potential visit to Washington are expected in the coming weeks.
The development is likely to intensify the already charged atmosphere as major political actors position themselves for the next electoral cycle.