United States President Donald Trump has appointed Dr Karl Von Batten as a commissioner on a White House presidential commission.
The appointment was announced by Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., the Washington-based lobbying and public affairs firm where Von Batten serves as managing partner.
In a statement shared on X, the firm said Von Batten was grateful to Trump for the opportunity to serve the United States and described the appointment as recognition of his record in public service and leadership.
“Dr. Von Batten is deeply grateful to President Trump for this appointment and for the confidence placed in him.”
The firm added that Von Batten looked forward to serving the President and the country in his new capacity.
The appointment is also attracting attention in Nigeria because of Von Batten’s recent professional relationship with Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In March 2026, Atiku reportedly engaged Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C. for lobbying services in Washington.
The 12-month agreement was reportedly valued at $1.2 million.
The Trump administration’s appointment of Von Batten therefore comes months after his firm secured the high-value engagement with Atiku as the ADC presidential candidate prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Von Batten’s new role places him within a presidential commission established under the Trump administration, while his lobbying firm continues to have a professional connection to a prominent Nigerian opposition politician.
The latest development is expected to attract further attention in Nigeria because of the intersection between Von Batten’s new position in the United States and his firm’s ongoing political lobbying work involving Atiku.
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