Political scientists suggest recalibration of Nigeria’s foreign policy

The Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA) has called for a strategic recalibration of Nigeria’s foreign policy.

The association said the move was necessary for Nigeria “to restore its influence and independence, guided by the country’s core national interests, revitalise its international image, and motivate policymakers to pursue meaningful reforms.”

The recommendation was contained in a statement signed by Hassan Saliu, the NPSA president.

The NPSA noted that a review of Nigeria’s foreign policy in recent years revealed five troubling developments, which contrast sharply with the country’s global posture in the 1970s under the Murtala Muhammed/Olusegun Obasanjo military administration.

It listed these concerns as the fragmentation of ECOWAS, weak international agreements, resurgence of debt, growing security dependence, and low citizen participation in foreign policy processes.

The association therefore called for a comprehensive reworking of Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives, stressing the need to make them measurable and achievable. It noted that current goals are often mired in idealism, limiting clarity and accountability in Nigeria’s international engagements.

It further emphasised that reassessing Nigeria’s position in the international system is crucial before making policy decisions, as this would provide a realistic basis for selecting effective strategies to restore the country’s stature and influence.

The NPSA added: “Make foreign policy a campaign issue: At present, foreign policy is not a major electoral concern. This must change, or the observation by Joe Garba on Nigeria’s lack of seriousness in foreign policy will persist.

“Clarify national interest: Despite ongoing debates, Nigeria must clearly define its national interest to effectively guide its external relations.

“Enforce due diligence in ambassadorial appointments: Declining capacity among ambassadors has been linked to excessive politicisation of the appointment process. As representatives of Nigeria’s sovereignty, ambassadors must meet high standards. The increasing rejection of ambassadorial nominees underscores this need.

“Fund diplomacy adequately: Foreign policy is resource-intensive. Operating embassies on limited budgets contributes to the dissatisfaction experienced by Nigerians abroad with the country’s diplomatic missions.”