Christian Genocide: Nigerian Govt Hires U.S. Lobbying Firm With $9 Million to Shape Washington’s Perception
The six-month contract, valued at $9 million, is aimed at communicating Nigeria’s security policies and counterterrorism initiatives to U.S. policymakers amid growing scrutiny over allegations of targeted violence against Christians.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into a high-profile lobbying arrangement valued at $9 million with a United States–based public affairs firm as part of its efforts to shape Washington’s perception of its handling of security challenges, particularly the protection of Christian communities in the country.
The six-month contract, valued at $9 million, is aimed at communicating Nigeria’s security policies and counterterrorism initiatives to U.S. policymakers amid growing scrutiny over allegations of targeted violence against Christians.
According to documents filed with the United States Department of Justice under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), the engagement was facilitated through Aster Legal, a law firm based in Kaduna State. Acting on behalf of Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, , Aster Legal retained the services of , a Washington-based lobbying and strategic communications firm with extensive experience in government relations.
The agreement was formally signed on December 17, 2025, by Oyetunji Olalekan Teslim, managing partner of , and Justin Peterson, managing member of DCI Group. Under the terms of the contract, the American firm is tasked with assisting the Nigerian government in articulating its actions to protect Christian communities, while also helping to sustain U.S. support for Nigeria’s fight against West African jihadist groups and other destabilizing elements.
Details of the Contract
The contract is set to run for an initial period of six months, expiring on June 30, 2026, with an automatic renewal clause for an additional six months unless terminated by either party. A termination provision allows either side to end the agreement without penalty, provided a 60-day written notice is given.
Financially, the arrangement represents a significant investment. Nigeria has already paid $4.5 million to DCI Group as a six-month retainer, covering professional fees and expenses. The contract stipulates a monthly retainer of $750,000, to be paid in two installments of $4.5 million each—one upon execution of the agreement and another after the first six months.
The fee structure underscores the seriousness with which Nigerian authorities are approaching their engagement with U.S. officials, particularly at a time when Nigeria’s security record has come under intense international scrutiny.
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Rising International Pressure
The lobbying effort comes against the backdrop of heightened concern in the United States over reports alleging widespread killings of Christians in Nigeria. In recent months, some U.S. lawmakers and advocacy groups have claimed that Christian communities in parts of the country are being systematically targeted by terrorist organizations and armed groups, particularly in the north and central regions.
These concerns culminated in October when the administration of redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under U.S. religious freedom laws. The designation, which is typically reserved for countries accused of severe violations of religious freedom, reignited debate over Nigeria’s internal security challenges and its handling of interreligious violence.
Nigerian officials have consistently rejected claims of a “Christian genocide,” describing the violence as part of a broader security crisis that affects people of all faiths. Government spokespeople argue that attacks by jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as banditry and communal conflicts, are driven more by extremism, criminality, and competition over resources than by religion alone.
Diplomatic Tensions and Rhetoric
The controversy took a dramatic turn in November when President Trump issued a strongly worded statement warning that the United States could intervene militarily if attacks on Christians continued. His comments—suggesting the U.S. might go into Nigeria “guns-a-blazing” to protect what he described as “our cherished Christians”—sparked diplomatic unease and prompted swift responses from Nigerian officials.
In Abuja, government representatives emphasized Nigeria’s sovereignty and reiterated their commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation. They also pledged to engage diplomatically with Washington to clarify the situation on the ground and counter what they see as misinformation.
It is within this tense diplomatic environment that the decision to hire DCI Group appears to have been made. By engaging a well-connected lobbying firm, Nigerian authorities hope to ensure that U.S. lawmakers, executive branch officials, and policy influencers receive what Abuja considers a more balanced and accurate account of its security efforts.
Security Developments on the Ground
While the lobbying contract focuses on communication and advocacy, security operations within Nigeria have continued. On Christmas Day, the United States carried out airstrikes against two terrorist enclaves in Bauni Forest, located in Tangaza Local Government Area of . The strikes reportedly targeted militant hideouts linked to extremist groups operating near Nigeria’s northwestern border.
The operation underscored the depth of U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation, even as diplomatic tensions simmered. Analysts note that such collaboration reflects shared concerns over the spread of jihadist violence across West Africa, particularly as extremist networks exploit porous borders and weak governance in remote regions.
Mixed Reactions at Home and Abroad
News of the $9 million lobbying contract has drawn mixed reactions within Nigeria. Supporters argue that strategic communication is essential in the international arena, especially when negative narratives risk affecting foreign aid, military cooperation, and Nigeria’s global reputation. They contend that without a proactive engagement strategy, Nigeria could face punitive measures or reduced support from key partners.
Critics, however, question the optics and cost of the contract, particularly at a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic challenges, rising inflation, and widespread insecurity. Some civil society groups have called for greater transparency, asking why such a large sum is being spent on lobbying rather than on direct support for victims of violence or improvements to local security infrastructure.
In the United States, reactions have also been divided. While some policymakers welcome Nigeria’s effort to engage constructively, others remain skeptical, insisting that tangible improvements in security and accountability will matter more than any lobbying campaign.
As the contract with DCI Group moves forward, its effectiveness will likely be judged by whether it can ease tensions with Washington and influence policy decisions related to Nigeria’s CPC designation and broader bilateral relations. For Nigeria, the stakes are high: maintaining strong ties with the United States is crucial not only for security cooperation but also for economic and diplomatic engagement.
Ultimately, the lobbying effort represents a calculated move by the Nigerian government to regain control of the narrative surrounding its security challenges. Whether this strategy will succeed depends on developments both in diplomatic corridors in Washington and on the ground in Nigeria’s conflict-affected regions, where lasting peace and protection for all communities remain the ultimate test.
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