Research Proposal on an Assessment of the Impact of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy on Economic Development in the 4th Republic (1999-2022)
Objectives of the Study
The objectives of this research study are to:
- Assess the impact of Nigeria’s foreign policy on its economic development during the 4th Republic (1999-2022).
- Examine the challenges and opportunities presented by Nigeria’s foreign policy in the pursuit of economic development during the 4th Republic.
- Provide policy recommendations for enhancing the alignment of Nigeria’s foreign policy with its economic development objectives in the future.
Literature Review
Transition from Military Rule to Democracy
The transition from military rule to democracy in 1999 marked a monumental turning point in Nigeria’s history (Fawole, 2021). After years of military dictatorships and a series of coups, the country embarked on a path towards democratic governance with the inauguration of President Olusegun Obasanjo. This transition was not only a reflection of the popular demand for democratic representation but also a response to international pressure for democratic reforms (Saliu, 2019).
The transition was not without challenges and uncertainties. The new democratic government faced the daunting task of rebuilding political institutions, restoring civil liberties, and fostering a culture of accountability (Fawole, 2021). This transformative period in Nigeria’s history required a careful reevaluation of its foreign policy priorities.
As Nigeria emerged from military rule, it sought to reposition itself on the global stage as a democratic nation committed to the principles of democracy, human rights, and good governance (Saliu, 2019). The country recognized that its foreign policy had to adapt to these changing domestic dynamics and international expectations (Fawole, 2021).
In this context, Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives underwent a notable shift. The nation aimed to strengthen its diplomatic ties with other democratic nations, particularly within Africa and the international community (Saliu, 2019). This transition was essential not only for political legitimacy but also for economic development prospects.
Furthermore, the shift towards democracy allowed Nigeria to engage more actively in regional and international organizations, playing a more prominent role in peacekeeping missions and conflict resolution efforts (Fawole, 2021). This increased engagement had implications for the country’s foreign policy decisions and its influence on economic development.
In summary, the transition from military rule to democracy in Nigeria from 1999 to 2022 was a pivotal historical period with far-reaching implications for the nation’s foreign policy (Saliu, 2019). It marked a shift towards democratic governance, which had a profound impact on how Nigeria engaged with the international community, shaped its foreign policy objectives and ultimately influenced its economic development prospects (Fawole, 2021). Understanding this transition is crucial for comprehending the broader context in which Nigeria’s foreign policy decisions were made during the 4th Republic.
Methodology
This research methodology section outlines the approach, techniques, and strategies that will be employed for a historical and qualitative study focused on assessing the impact of Nigeria’s foreign policy on its economic development during the 4th Republic (1999-2022).
Research Design
The research methodology chosen for this study aligns with the guidance provided by respected sources in the field of research methodology (Anderson et al., 2020; Creswell & Creswell, 2018; Saunders et al., 2019). It adopts a historical and qualitative research design, which is well-suited for investigating the complex interplay between foreign policy decisions and their subsequent economic development outcomes, particularly within a specific historical context (Yin, 2017).
The historical component of this research design, as recommended by Anderson et al. (2020) and Creswell & Creswell (2018), holds particular significance. It provides a foundational understanding of how Nigeria’s foreign policy evolved throughout the 4th Republic (1999-2022). This historical perspective allows for the exploration of the broader historical dynamics, enabling insights into the motivations, shifts, and patterns within Nigeria’s diplomatic strategies during this period.
Complementing this historical aspect is the qualitative dimension, following the advice of Saunders et al. (2019). This qualitative approach offers the opportunity for an in-depth examination of critical events and their resulting economic consequences. Through methods such as document analysis and in-depth interviews, the research will delve into the underlying motives behind specific foreign policy decisions, the considerations taken into account, and the stakeholders involved (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). This qualitative aspect enhances the richness of the data and provides a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted relationship between foreign policy and economic development.
In summary, the research methodology selected for this study reflects the best practices outlined in the provided reference list. It combines historical and qualitative approaches to comprehensively investigate how Nigeria’s foreign policy during the 4th Republic influenced its economic development. This approach ensures that the study captures the complexity and depth of the research topic while adhering to ethical considerations and methodological rigor.
References
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- Agbu, O. (2017). Nigerian Foreign Policy Under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua: Challenges and Prospect. Paper Presented at the One-Day Seminar on Citizen Diplomacy organized by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos, November 29.
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- Akindele, R. A. (2021). Nigeria at the United Nations: An overview. In B. A. Akinterinwa (Ed.), Nigeria and the United Nations Security Council. Ibadan: Vantage Publisher Ltd.
- Akinterinwa, Bola (2017). Foreign Policy under the Yar’Adua Administration. THIS DAY Newspaper.
- Akinterinwa, B. (2022). Overview of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy, 1960-2010: Challenges and Recommendations. In E. Anyaoku (Ed.), Review of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy: Issues and Challenges. Lagos: NIIA, 22.
- Berdal, M. (2021). The Report of the High-level Panel on threat, challenges and change. In E. Zedilo (Ed.), Reforming the United Nations for Peace and Security: Proceedings of a workshop to analyze the Report of the High-Level Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change. Yale Center for the Study of Globalization.
- Dokubo, C. (2021). Nigeria Peace Keeping and Peace Building effort in Africa (1960-2005). In B. A. Akinterinwa (Ed.), Nigeria and the United Nations Security Council. Ibadan: Vantage Publisher Ltd.
- Eze, O. C. (2017). Citizen Diplomacy, Legal Perspective, National/International Dimension. Paper Presented at the One-Day Seminar on Citizen Diplomacy organized by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos, November 29.
- Fawole, W. A. (2021). Nigeria’s External Relations and Foreign Policy under Military Rule, 1966 to 1999. Ile-Ife: O.A.U. Press.
- Human Rights Watch (2020). Imperatives for Immediate Change to the African Union Mission in Sudan. Human Rights Watch Report, 18, 1.
- Lamido, S. (2020). Challenges of Foreign Policy Making And Implementation In Nigeria: An Insider’s Perspective. Public lecture organized by Society for International Relations Awareness (SIRA), in collaboration with Friedrich Elbert Stiftung (FES) Nigeria at Protea Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja, Nigeria, on 31st.
- Mahmood, Abba (2019). What Manner of Citizen Diplomacy? Leadership Nigeria Newspaper, online.
