Matthew Tonlagha, vice-chairman of Tantita Security Services, hires Washington-based Valcour Global to strengthen Nigeria-US relations in a $120,000/month lobbying deal.
Matthew Tonlagha, vice-chairman of Tantita Security Services and chairman of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited, has hired a Washington-based lobbying firm to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United States.
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The contract with Valcour Global Public Strategy, a global firm specialising in public policy and political communications, was signed on December 16, 2025, by Tonlagha and Valcour’s president, Matt Mowers, a former senior White House advisor under President Donald Trump.
Under the agreement, Valcour Global will provide consulting services in strategic communications and government affairs, liaising with US media, Congress, and Executive Branch officials.
The deal, effective from December 15, 2025, to June 14, 2026, stipulates a monthly payment of $120,000, payable quarterly.
Prior to this, Maton Engineering paid $105,000 to Bridgeway Advocacy on December 31, 2025, and $60,000 to Mount Olives LLC on January 5, 2026, for monthly retainer services.
The contract coincides with a separate $9 million lobbying deal signed by the Nigerian federal government with DCI Group to communicate its actions on protecting Christians in Nigeria.
This deal, managed by Aster Legal on behalf of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, underscores Nigeria’s growing focus on diplomatic engagement with the US amid human rights discussions.
Tonlagha hails from Benikrukru, Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Delta State, and serves as vice-chairman of Tantita Security Services, which oversees oil pipeline surveillance in the Niger Delta under the chairmanship of former militant Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo).
He recently marked his 50th birthday with a grand ceremony in Warri, attended by Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and several political and traditional leaders.
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Oborevwori praised Tonlagha for his “service to humanity” and efforts to unite communities across Nigeria.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
