The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticised the Federal Government over its reported $9 million contract with U.S.-based lobbying firm DCI Group, calling the deal “defective and deceptive.” The opposition party condemned the move as an unnecessary expenditure aimed at improving Nigeria’s image abroad instead of addressing the country’s pressing security challenges.

According to the PDP, the contract, facilitated through Kaduna-based law firm Aster Legal, seeks to convince the Trump administration and key U.S. lawmakers that Nigeria is taking steps to protect Christian communities in the northern region and counter West African jihadist threats. The Tinubu administration reportedly paid an initial $4.5 million tranche on December 12, 2025, with the remaining $4.5 million due by July 2026.

The party described the expenditure as shameful, particularly given the existence of a fully funded Ministry of Information and experienced media officers. “This is a clear indication that the President does not have confidence in the Ministry of Information and his media aides,” the PDP said in a statement.

The opposition raised multiple concerns about the deal, questioning whether it was included in the 2025 budget, why it was executed through a private law firm rather than the Ministry of Justice, and what measurable outcomes Nigerians should expect. The PDP further demanded disclosure of Key Performance Indicators to evaluate the contract’s value.

Highlighting Nigeria’s security challenges, the party stressed that no foreign lobbying could replace tangible improvements in citizens’ safety. “If the administration wishes to change the country’s perception abroad, it should first invest in the security of lives and property. The undeniable truth is that Nigerians have not felt this insecure, even during the civil war,” the PDP noted.

The party urged President Tinubu to prioritise protecting all Nigerians, regardless of religion, and to focus on sustainable solutions to insecurity rather than “ephemeral optics” abroad.