The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed strong disapproval of the Bola Tinubu administration following reports of a $9 million contract awarded for lobbying services in the United States.
The party views this expenditure as a misguided effort to improve the government’s image abroad, especially as many Nigerians face escalating insecurity and economic challenges.
In a statement released by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s spokesperson, the party criticized the government for prioritizing image management over pressing domestic issues that affect citizens’ daily lives.
The statement highlighted: “The African Democratic Congress denounces the Tinubu administration’s decision to allocate scarce public resources for foreign image enhancement while neglecting the growing crises of security and economy within Nigeria. The $9 million lobbying contract is particularly concerning given the current hardships faced by the populace.”
The ADC pointed out that no other African government has allocated such a significant amount for a public relations initiative.
“While the ADC acknowledges the need for international representation of Nigeria’s interests, investing $9 million in image management is a blatant misallocation of resources when millions struggle to access basic necessities like food, fuel, and healthcare,” the statement continued.
The party emphasized that no lobbying effort could conceal the realities of violence and insecurity that have plagued the country.
“Attempts to improve the country’s image cannot mask the tragic loss of thousands of lives that have occurred under this administration. Lobbying foreign leaders cannot replace a solid strategy aimed at addressing these critical issues,” they asserted.
Additionally, the ADC criticized the framing of the lobbying as a campaign to highlight efforts for Christian protection, warning that such narratives could exacerbate sectarian divides.
The party concluded by stating that Nigeria needs genuine leadership rather than propaganda, urging the government to focus on safeguarding lives and rebuilding trust in public institutions.
