Nigeria's Foreign Policy and Relations with African Countries

Nigeria’s foreign policy since independence has consistently placed Africa at its core. This focus, often referred to as 'Africa as the Centerpiece' of Nigeria's foreign policy, reflects the belief that Nigeria's destiny is inextricably linked to the peace and prosperity of the African continent.

1. Africa as the 'Centre Piece' of Nigeria's Foreign Policy

The concept was first articulated during the First Republic by Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and was significantly consolidated during the military regime of General Murtala Muhammed and General Olusegun Obasanjo.

Guiding Principles

• Sovereign Equality: The belief that all African states, regardless of size or population, are equal.
• Non-Interference: Respect for the internal affairs of other African nations.
• Afrocentricity: Prioritizing African interests in global affairs.
• Decolonization: Active support for the liberation of African territories from colonial rule (e.g., South Africa, Zimbabwe, Angola).
• Peaceful Resolution: Encouraging mediation and diplomacy over armed conflict.

Implementation

Nigeria has implemented this policy through various means:

• Financial Assistance: Through the Technical Aid Corps (TAC) and direct grants to poorer African nations.
• Peacekeeping: Leading ECOMOG operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone, and contributing to AU/UN missions in Sudan and Congo.
• Decolonization: Nigeria was a 'Frontline State' despite being in West Africa, funding movements like the ANC in South Africa.
• Economic Integration: Playing a leading role in the formation of ECOWAS and the African Union (AU).

Implications

While the policy has earned Nigeria the title 'Giant of Africa', it has led to significant financial burdens, often at the expense of domestic development. It has also created a 'Big Brother' perception that occasionally leads to friction with smaller neighbors.

2. NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa's Development)

Origin

NEPAD was adopted at the 37th OAU Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, in July 2001. It resulted from the merger of the Millennium Partnership for the African Recovery Programme (MAP), led by Presidents Mbeki, Obasanjo, and Bouteflika, and the OMEGA Plan, proposed by President Abdoulaye Wade.

Objectives

• To eradicate poverty and place African countries on a path of sustainable growth.
• To halt the marginalization of Africa in the globalization process.
• To promote the role of women in all activities.
• To promote good governance and democracy through the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM).

Role in Developing Africa

NEPAD provides a framework for African leaders to take responsibility for the continent's development. By emphasizing 'good governance' as a prerequisite for foreign investment, it has encouraged political stability. However, it faces challenges such as over-reliance on foreign funding and slow implementation by member states.