Africa; The Centerpiece of Nigerian’s Foreign Policy

The origin of this concept “Africa the center piece of foreign policy” could be traced to the administration of the first Republic in Nigeria (1960-1966) headed by the then prime minister, sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. He maintained that, we belong to Africa as such Nigeria would pursue the realistic of Africa policies. Africa should be given the pride of a place in Nigeria’s foreign policy formulation. The following are the principles of the concepts;

1. Developing programs for possible assistance to other Africa states and fostering understanding among them
2. The belief in the sovereignty and equality of African states
3. Promoting friendly association among independent African state
4. To oppose aggression, support the demand for restoration of fundamental human rights in Africa and the world in general
5. To support as at then the struggle against apartheid policy and its eradication in south Africa

REASONS FOR THE ADOPTION OF AFRICA AS THE CENTRE PIECE OF NIGERIA’S FOREIGN POLICY

1. Size and population of Nigeria in the continent added to its enormous wealth
2. The ideological rivalries that penetrated into Africa
3. The inter-territorial communication which help in improving and the cooperation among Africa states
4. De-colonization of Africa states i.e not granting independence to some African
5. The geographical location in Nigeria was given a pride of place by most Africa leaders
6. To provide assistance to other states and fostering understanding among them

FORMULATION

1. It is the responsibilities of the president of a country to formulate foreign policy
2. Consultation are made with Nigeria diplomat or representatives abroad, expert in the universities, leaders or thought before taking decision
3. The presidency is assisted in policy formation by the minister and officials of the ministry of external affairs

HOW HAS NIGERIA DEMONSTRATED THAT AFRICA IS THE CENTRE PIECE OF HER FOREIGN POLICY

1. Anti- racism and anti-colonization
2. For the purpose of unity and solidarity
3. For friendly relations
4. For promotion of peace and unity
5. Assistance to sister Africa state
6. For the resolution of conflicts
7. For diplomatic mission in Africa
8. For encouragement of democracy among African states
9. For promotion of intra-African sports
10. For the purpose of speaking with one voice at international organization e.g. UNO

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