PDP Criticizes Nigerian Government Over $9 Million US Lobbying Deal

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the Nigerian government for engaging a US-based lobbying firm, DCI Group, in a $9 million contract to enhance Nigeria's international image. The PDP spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, criticized the decision, highlighting concerns about transparency and the government's priorities.

The contract, reportedly facilitated by a Kaduna-based law firm on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, involves a six-month engagement with automatic renewals. The PDP questions the rationale behind outsourcing Nigeria's foreign image management to a foreign firm while domestic challenges like insecurity persist.

Ememobong accused the APC-led government of prioritizing optics over addressing critical issues like worsening insecurity, urging President Tinubu to focus on solving internal problems.