Lai Mohammed, the former Minister of Information and Culture, has taken on a new role as the managing partner of international lobbying firm Ballard Partners, just two weeks after leaving office. Ballard Partners specializes in governmental and public affairs, offering services such as legislative and executive agency advocacy.
The appointment of Lai Mohammed was announced through a statement posted on the firm’s official Twitter handle on Tuesday. According to the statement, Ballard Partners will be establishing its first office in Africa, located in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. Mohammed will be overseeing operations as the managing partner of the Abuja office, as well as the firm’s satellite office in Lagos, the nation’s financial center.
Brian Ballard, the president of Ballard Partners, explained that Mohammed was chosen for the position due to his high level of respect and esteemed reputation within the country. He stated, “Opening our first African office in Nigeria expands our firm’s international footprint to three continents and builds upon the important work we have done on behalf of African nations and companies in Africa and the U.S. We are honored to have former minister Lai Mohammed join the firm as our managing partner in Nigeria. His outstanding reputation and exceptional experience will be invaluable to our firm’s clients.”
In response to his appointment, Mohammed expressed his enthusiasm for joining Ballard Partners, emphasizing the firm’s excellent global track record. He conveyed his delight at opening the firm’s first office in Africa, stating, “Ballard Partners has an impeccable reputation internationally and is well known for its success representing African countries and American firms in Africa.”
With this new position, Lai Mohammed aims to contribute his extensive public service background and expertise to further strengthen Ballard Partners’ presence in Nigeria and support its clients effectively. His appointment signifies a significant milestone for the firm, as it expands its operations to the African continent, marking its presence on three different continents overall.
