WASHINGTON — United States President Donald Trump has appointed Washington-based lobbyist and public affairs executive, Dr. Karl Von Batten, to serve as a commissioner on a presidential commission at the White House.

The appointment was announced on Thursday by Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., the lobbying and public affairs firm where Von Batten serves as managing partner. The firm described the appointment as a major honour and said its managing partner was prepared to serve the United States.

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In a statement published on its 𝕏 page, the firm said: “Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C. is proud to announce that President Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) has appointed our Managing Partner, Dr. Karl Von Batten, to serve the United States of America as a Commissioner on a @WhiteHouse presidential commission.”

The firm added that Von Batten was grateful to Trump for the confidence placed in him, describing the appointment as recognition of his commitment to public service, leadership and the country.

“Dr. Von Batten is deeply grateful to President Trump (The Chief) for this appointment and for the confidence placed in him. This presidential appointment represents a tremendous honor and reflects Dr. Von Batten’s longstanding commitment to public service, leadership, and our nation. Dr. Von Batten looks forward to answering the call to serve our President and country,” the statement said.

The appointment is notable in Nigeria because of Von Batten’s recent professional relationship with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In March 2026, Atiku’s campaign reportedly engaged Von Batten-Montague-York to provide lobbying services in Washington. The agreement was structured as a 12-month contract reportedly valued at $1.2 million.

The latest appointment places Von Batten in a White House presidential commission while his firm has continued to attract attention in Nigerian political circles because of its previous engagement with Atiku.

The appointment also comes amid heightened political activity ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with several Nigerian political actors increasingly seeking international advocacy and lobbying support in Washington.