AN INSIGHT INTO NIGERIA’S FOREIGN POLICY OBJECTIVES 2009-2021

Abstract

The research examined Nigeria’s Foreign Policy from 2009 to 2021. Qualitative data were sourced from both primary and secondary, content analysis and elite theory was adopted. The paper was motivated to find out domestic challenges, foreign policy thrust and how the latter addressed the former. In order to aid understanding, the concepts of foreign policy and national interest were conceptualised and Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives under the past administrations were condensed. The data indicated three personalities championed the course of Nigeria’s foreign policy. Nigeria's internal environment was characterised by unemployment, insecurity, poverty and corruption. With the instrumentality of diplomacy, Nigeria’s foreign policy thrust were economy, insecurity threat and anti-corruption. These have not yielded expected outcomes in addressing the municipal problems. Hence, the paper recommended: inclusion of the private enterprise, trade union and general populace in outlining Nigeria’s foreign policy. Continuation of policy in order to ensure it realisation