By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised the federal government over its approval of a $9m lobbying contract in the United States, describing the move as “deceptive communication” and a misuse of public funds.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the PDP faulted the government for engaging DCI Group, a US-based lobbying firm, to promote Nigeria’s narrative on the protection of Christians to American policymakers and institutions.
The opposition party argued that the contract reflects an attempt to manage international perception rather than address what it described as deepening insecurity and governance failures at home.
According to the PDP, the government should focus on tackling the root causes of violence and religious tensions in the country instead of spending millions of dollars on foreign lobbyists.
“It is unacceptable that the federal government would commit such huge public resources to image laundering abroad while citizens continue to grapple with insecurity, economic hardship and loss of lives,” the party said.
The PDP also questioned the transparency of the contract, calling on the government to provide full details of the agreement and explain the basis for approving the expenditure.
The federal government has not directly responded to the PDP’s claims, but officials have previously defended the engagement of foreign lobbyists as part of efforts to correct what they describe as misinformation about Nigeria’s security situation, particularly regarding religious persecution.
The controversy adds to ongoing political debate over government spending priorities, accountability and Nigeria’s international image amid persistent security challenges.
