Let’s talk about Nigeria’s foreign policy and the amazing things they’ve done for other African countries. From supporting liberation struggles to participating in peacekeeping missions, Nigeria has been a real MVP in the global arena. Back in the day, they had some top-notch foreign ministers who made us proud. But now, with President Bola Tinubu at the helm, we’re not quite sure where the ship is headed. Let’s take a closer look at Nigeria’s foreign adventures and see where they might lead us.
In the past, Nigeria had some outstanding foreign ministers who helped shape the country’s foreign policy objectives. From Dr Jaja Wachukwu to Professor Ibrahim Gambari, these folks made us proud on the global stage. Nigeria also played a significant role in various United Nations peacekeeping missions, from the Congo to Sierra Leone and beyond. They even provided assistance to other African countries, investing in projects like the N7 million cement project with Benin Republic and the uranium mining in Niger. Nigeria’s contributions to the African Development Bank and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) budget have been substantial, showing their commitment to the continent’s development.
But now, with President Bola Tinubu in charge, there’s a bit of uncertainty about Nigeria’s foreign policy. Some folks think he might lean towards a pro-western stance, given his background. However, his Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and Foreign Minister, Alhaji Tugger, are both Muslims, so who knows what direction they’ll take? President Tinubu’s past doesn’t exactly scream radical or revolutionary, and his age might not be on his side for any drastic changes. So, it’s a bit of a mystery where Nigeria’s foreign policy might head under his leadership.
As for the current Foreign Minister, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, he’s had his fair share of diplomatic experiences. From serving as the Nigerian Ambassador to Germany to facilitating the return of lost Benin artefacts, Tuggar has been quite active on the international stage. He’s also been involved in climate change conferences and played a role in the state visit of German Chancellor Angela Merkel to Nigeria. So, it seems like Nigeria’s foreign affairs are in good hands, at least for now.
Looking back at Nigeria’s history of foreign adventures, it’s clear that they’ve made significant contributions to the continent and the world at large. But with a new leader at the helm, it’s anyone’s guess where Nigeria’s foreign policy might go. Will they continue to be a powerhouse in African affairs, or will they take a different path? Only time will tell. Let’s keep an eye on Nigeria’s global radar and see where it takes us.
By Eric Teniola, a former director at the Presidency, writing from Lagos.