Nigeria’s political contest ahead of the 2027 presidential election has extended beyond its borders, with both the ruling All Progressives Congress and the opposition African Democratic Congress intensifying lobbying efforts in major global capitals, including Washington and London.
At the centre of the unfolding international engagement are President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whose camps are seeking to shape global perception of Nigeria ahead of the next general election.
Battle shifts beyond Nigeria
Findings indicate that both camps are targeting foreign policymakers, international media and the Nigerian diaspora in a strategic push to influence how Nigeria’s political climate is perceived internationally.
For the opposition, the move is seen as urgent and necessary.
Media aide to Atiku, Paul Ibe, said the campaign was aimed at drawing global attention to what he described as threats to Nigeria’s democracy.
He noted that the ADC had begun deploying a network of representatives across key global cities to engage foreign institutions and governments directly.
‘It’s beyond perception’ — Atiku’s camp
Also speaking, Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, dismissed the government’s international messaging as an attempt to mask domestic realities.
According to him, the hardship faced by Nigerians cannot be downplayed by external image management, insisting that the administration’s record speaks for itself.
APC defends lobbying efforts
However, the APC defended its international engagement, describing it as a legitimate and widely accepted practice in global diplomacy.
The party’s Lagos State spokesman, Seye Oladejo, said governments across the world routinely engage lobbying and public affairs firms to promote national interests, attract investments and correct misinformation.
He maintained that Nigeria’s international outreach was aimed at presenting a more accurate and positive narrative, while countering what he described as attempts by opposition figures to discredit the country abroad.
Huge sums committed
Investigations reveal that the Federal Government has reportedly earmarked up to $9m (about N13.5bn) for lobbying activities in the United States.
On the other hand, Atiku is said to have secured a $1.2m (about N1.8bn) agreement to bolster his own engagement in Washington.
The ADC is also strengthening its international presence through a coordinated network spanning cities such as Washington DC, London and Brussels.
Observers say the scale and structure of these efforts signal a shift from occasional outreach to sustained international political engagement.
Experts raise concerns
Reacting to the development, international business consultant, Brian Rubin, suggested that the government’s approach may be more reactive than strategic.
He noted that reliance on lobbying rather than institutional credibility could indicate concerns about Nigeria’s perception abroad.
Stakes beyond image
Analysts warn that the growing international dimension of Nigeria’s political contest could have far-reaching implications.
Global perception, they say, may influence foreign investment, diplomatic relations, election monitoring and ultimately the credibility of the 2027 polls.
While the government seeks to reinforce confidence, the opposition appears focused on raising international scrutiny.
Two-front election battle
With political alignments gradually taking shape, indications are that the 2027 election will be fought both domestically and internationally.
Despite the mounting resources being deployed abroad, observers note that the final outcome will still depend on Nigerian voters.
However, concerns remain over whether the narratives being projected globally will reflect realities on the ground.
