Nigeria’s Foreign Policy Rejoinder
Yusuf Bangura on Nigeria’s Foreign Policy, France and BRICS
By Toba Alabi: tobalabi@yahoo.com
Yusuf Bangura’s piece provides a compelling critique of Nigeria’s foreign policy trajectory, particularly in relation to its partner status in BRICS and its controversial ties with France.
Expanding on the observations in the article reveals deeper implications for Nigeria’s geopolitical role and Africa’s development.
Nigeria’s Role in BRICS and Development Implications for Africa
BRICS, despite its objective of challenging Western hegemony, remains riddled with internal contradictions. Competing geopolitical interests among member states, such as China and India, undermine the bloc’s cohesion.
Similarly, South Africa and Ethiopia, though full members, are preoccupied with domestic challenges, leaving little room for a unified African agenda within BRICS. Nigeria’s designation as a partner country underscores its limited influence and highlights how weak domestic governance undermines its regional and global ambitions.
While BRICS offers potential benefits in trade, technology, and infrastructure investment, it is unlikely to address Africa’s structural economic challenges without cohesive policies and bargaining power. Nigeria must critically evaluate its participation in the bloc, ensuring that partnerships prioritize African industrialization and regional integration rather than merely positioning Africa as a pawn in global power rivalries.
Caution in Relations with France and Other Powers.
France’s historical role as a neo-colonial power in West Africa and its antagonistic stance towards Nigeria remain significant concerns. Aligning with France, especially under President Macron’s leadership, diminishes Nigeria’s credibility as a defender of African sovereignty. France’s opposition to the ECOWAS eco currency and its divisive influence in Francophone Africa reveal its intent to maintain dominance rather than foster genuine regional cooperation.
Nigeria must adopt a more independent and strategic foreign policy that reduces reliance on global powers such as France, the US, or China. Over dependence compromises Nigeria’s sovereignty and its ability to lead Africa. Instead, Nigeria should champion policies that prioritize regional unity and collective self-reliance, ensuring that Africa’s interests remain central.
Nigeria’s Domestic Governance as the Root Cause:
Nigeria’s domestic challenges significantly undermine its foreign policy effectiveness. Political instability, corruption, and economic mismanagement have eroded its credibility as a regional leader. For instance, the 2023 devaluation of the naira weakened Nigeria’s economy, reducing its leverage in international negotiations and portraying it as a nation struggling to harness its potential.
To rebuild its credibility, Nigeria must prioritize good governance, economic stability, and social cohesion. A nation divided and weakened domestically cannot effectively project power or lead internationally.
Recommendations for Repositioning Nigeria’s Foreign Policy
Strategic Engagement with BRICS: Nigeria should advocate for reforms within BRICS that support Africa’s long-term development. These should include equitable trade terms, technology transfer, and infrastructure financing.
Accepting a passive partner status without clear demands diminishes Nigeria’s geopolitical standing and potential impact.
Re-evaluation of Relations with France: Nigeria must reconsider its alignment with France, especially within ECOWAS. Instead of supporting France’s neocolonial agenda, Nigeria should back initiatives that empower Francophone African nations to achieve economic and political independence.
Strengthening ECOWAS and Regional Unity: Nigeria’s leadership in ECOWAS should focus on restoring trust and rebuilding fractured alliances, such as those with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). A divided ECOWAS weakens Nigeria’s regional influence and leaves Africa vulnerable to exploitation by external powers.
Domestic Reforms as a Foundation for Global Leadership: Nigeria’s foreign policy ambitions must rest on a foundation of strong domestic governance. This requires tackling corruption, stabilizing the economy, addressing security challenges, and fostering social cohesion.
Without these reforms, Nigeria risks further marginalization in both African and global geopolitics.
In conclusion, Yusuf Bangura’s critique is a timely reminder of the urgent need for Nigeria to reassert its leadership in Africa through visionary foreign policy, strengthened regional solidarity, and comprehensive domestic transformation.
Without addressing these foundational challenges, Nigeria’s aspirations for global influence and regional dominance will remain unattainable.
Toba Alabi is Professor of Political Science and Defence Studies.
