Introduction: Reflections on 60 Years of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy

Abstract

The chapter introduces the book and reflects Nigeria’s foreign policy in the past 60 years. It notes from the onset that there is a deep understanding that from its inception in 1960, Nigerian foreign policy under both military and civilian governments has been characterised by elements of continuity and change. The major themes examined in these chapter include Nigeria’s historical emergence on the world stage and the foundation of the country’s foreign policy; from post-civil war pan-African engagements to foreign policy activism; strengthening African solidarity, promotion of peace and stability in Africa; a pariah nation and shift to Asia; shuttle diplomacy and the return to pragmatic engagement in African and world affairs; from citizens’ diplomacy to domestic concerns; strengthen cooperation and partnerships in the fight against corruption, insecurity and economic rejuvenation. The chapter also revealed that in the context of contemporary Nigeria, the domestic agendas that inevitably impinge on Nigeria’s foreign policy are the need to combat terrorism and other sources of national insecurity, a sustained and dispassionate fight against corruption, and a purposeful economic action plan that will prioritise economic diversification with a specific focus on agriculture and solid minerals, infrastructural development. In the economic sphere, there is need for a foreign policy approach that is geared towards achieving the country’s national interest. The concluding section of the chapter is the scope of the book, which summarises various chapters in the book. The chapters have been carefully selected to give room for critical reflections on pressing issues that are pertinent to Nigeria’s foreign policy in the past, which enable us to understand the present and project into the future.