(a) What is foreign policy? (b) State four factors that influence Nigeria's foreign policy.

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of foreign policy

Foreign policy refers to the set of principles, objectives and strategies which a state adopts and pursues in its dealings and relationships with other states and international organisations, in order to protect and promote its own national interest. It is the guiding framework that determines how a country conducts its external relations in areas such as diplomacy, trade, defence and international cooperation.

(b) Four factors that influence Nigeria's foreign policy

1. National interest: The overriding desire to protect Nigeria's security, sovereignty, economic well-being and the welfare of its citizens shapes the direction of its external relations.
2. Geographical location: Nigeria's position in West Africa and its size have made it emphasise good neighbourliness and leadership in African and West African affairs, such as the promotion of ECOWAS.
3. Economic factors: The state of the national economy, especially dependence on oil exports and the need for trade, investment and foreign exchange, strongly influences the policies Nigeria pursues abroad.
4. Ideology and public opinion: The country's commitment to Africa as the centrepiece of its policy, anti-colonialism and non-alignment, together with the views of the citizens and the press, guide its foreign policy decisions.

Other influencing factors include military strength, historical and colonial ties, and the personality and disposition of the leaders in power.