The Nigerian government has hired Washington-based lobbying/ PR firm, DCI Group in a $9 million contract to communicate its efforts to protect Christians in Nigeria to the United States government and opinion leaders.
Documents filed with the US Department of Justice show the deal was facilitated by Kaduna-based law firm Aster Legal on behalf of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Signed on December 17, 2025, the agreement authorizes DCI Group to help “communicate Nigeria’s actions to protect Christian communities and maintain U.S. support in countering West African jihadist groups and other destabilizing elements.”
Under the contract, DCI Group will receive $750,000 per month over 12 months. The initial term runs for six months, until June 30, 2026, with an automatic renewal for another six months. Nigeria paid a $4.5 million prepayment for the first six months on December 12, 2025. Either party can terminate the deal with 60 days’ notice.
The lobbying engagement comes amid tensions between Abuja and Washington over reports of attacks on Christians. In October 2025, US President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” citing alleged attacks on Christian communities. Nigerian authorities have repeatedly denied claims of Christian genocide, attributing violence mainly to terrorism, banditry, and communal clashes.
The issue escalated in November when Trump warned the US might “go into Nigeria guns-a-blazing to wipe out the terrorists killing our cherished Christians,” following pressure from lawmakers. On Christmas Day, the US military launched airstrikes against terrorist enclaves in Bauni Forest, Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State, marking a significant escalation in counterterrorism activity.
The DCI Group contract reflects Nigeria’s effort to engage the US through legal and diplomatic channels and clarify the situation on the ground, and gather international support for the country’s security efforts
