The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into a $9 million contract with a Washington-based lobbying firm, DCI Group, to counter claims of Christian persecution and influence the United States government’s perception of Nigeria’s efforts to protect Christian communities.
Documents filed with the United States Department of Justice and first reported by TheCable show that the agreement was facilitated by Kaduna-based law firm, Aster Legal, on behalf of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.
Under the contract, DCI Group is mandated 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 destabilising elements.”
The agreement stipulates a monthly fee of $750,000, amounting to $9 million over a 12-month period. It commenced with an initial six-month term set to expire on June 30, 2026, with an automatic renewal clause for an additional six months.
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Records indicate that Nigeria made an upfront payment of $4.5 million on December 12, 2025, covering the first half of the contract, while the balance is expected to be paid upon completion of the initial term.
The contract also provides that either party may terminate the agreement “for any reason without penalty” by giving a 60-day written notice.
The lobbying move follows growing diplomatic tensions between Abuja and Washington over allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria. In October 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” citing violence against Christians.
Nigerian authorities have consistently rejected the designation, arguing that insecurity in the country stems from terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts rather than religious targeting.
Tensions further escalated in November when President Trump suggested the possibility of direct U.S. intervention, including potential military action, to protect Christian communities. The situation intensified on Christmas Day when the U.S. military carried out airstrikes on terrorist targets in Bauni Forest, Sokoto State, signalling increased U.S. involvement in Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations.
In response, the Federal Government reiterated its commitment to engaging the United States through diplomatic and legal channels to address what it described as misconceptions surrounding the safety of Christian communities in Nigeria.
Hmm….Allah ya kyauta. The money should have been spent on some important social development projects, rather than on DCI and some crooks just to convince Donald Trump to dismiss his outrageous and baseless narrative on Christian persecution in Nigeria. A total waste of public funds
Hmm….Allah ya kyauta. The money should have been spent on some important social development projects, rather than on DCI and some crooks just to convince Donald Trump to dismiss his outrageous and baseless narrative on Christian persecution in Nigeria. A total waste of public funds!