The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed strong disapproval of the federal government’s approval of a $9 million contract for lobbying services in the United States.

According to the party, the deal, which engaged the services of DCI Group to communicate Nigeria’s efforts at protecting Christians abroad, reflects “misplaced priorities” amid the country’s worsening security and economic crises.

The lobbying contract, filed with the US Department of Justice, revealed that Aster Legal, a Kaduna-based law firm, secured the services of DCI Group on behalf of Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser.

In a statement signed by Bolaji Abdullahi, national publicity secretary of the ADC, the expenditure was described as “scandalous” and a demonstration of moral blindness.

“The ADC condemns the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration for allocating scarce public resources to polish its image abroad while millions of Nigerians struggle to afford basic needs such as food, fuel, and healthcare,” the statement read.

“No government in Africa has ever spent such an exorbitant amount on a short-term public relations exercise. While international representation is important, this decision comes at a time when citizens are facing severe hardship.”

The opposition party further criticised the administration for outsourcing diplomacy while leaving key ambassadorial positions vacant, a move the ADC said undermines Nigeria’s institutional credibility and reduces foreign policy to mere transactional propaganda.

The party also raised concerns about the framing of the lobbying effort as a “campaign to communicate Christian protection efforts,” warning that it could deepen sectarian divisions.

“Security failures affect all Nigerians, regardless of faith, and cannot be addressed through selective messaging abroad instead of justice, accountability, and effective governance at home,” the statement added.

The ADC urged the federal government to focus on protecting lives, restoring trust in public institutions, and addressing pressing national challenges rather than prioritising image management abroad.