The Nigerian government has initiated a $9 million lobbying agreement with a firm based in the United States to highlight Nigeria's initiatives aimed at safeguarding Christian communities and to secure continued American backing for counter-terrorism efforts.
Records submitted to the US Department of Justice reveal that Aster Legal, a Kaduna State law firm, has contracted DCI Group to represent the interests of Nigeria's National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
This agreement was formalized on December 17, 2025, with signatures from Oyetunji Olalekan Teslim, managing partner at Aster Legal, and Justin Peterson, managing member of DCI Group.
According to the contract, DCI Group will assist the Nigerian government, via Aster Legal, in communicating its measures for the protection of Nigerian Christian communities while also seeking to maintain US support against jihadist groups and other destabilizing factors in West Africa.
The contract's initial term is set for six months, extending to June 30, 2026, with a provision for automatic renewal for another six months unless terminated by either party with a 60-day notice.
Financial reports show that an upfront payment of $4.5 million was made to DCI Group by Nigeria on December 12 as an initial retainer for a six-month period. The contract stipulates a monthly retainer fee of $750,000, which amounts to a total of $4.5 million over two separate installments due upon execution and after six months.
This engagement is part of a larger security cooperation framework between Nigeria and the United States.
Recently, US military operations included airstrikes in Sokoto State targeting militants associated with the Islamic State, who were alleged to be collaborating with the Lakurawa jihadist faction and local bandit groups.
These strikes coincided with rising tensions stemming from claims of persecution and violence against Christian populations in Nigeria.
Former US President Donald Trump had previously characterized the situation as 'genocide,' a claim that the Nigerian government vehemently denied.
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