Historical Foundation of Nigeria’s foreign policy Objectives in West Africa Sub- Region 1967 -2007

Nigeria’s foreign policy in West Africa from 1967-2007 was shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including regional security concerns, economic interests, and domestic politics. Throughout this period, Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives in West Africa were driven by a desire to assert its leadership role in the region, promote regional stability and security, and protect its economic interests. Nevertheless, as the analysis illustrated, this position also imposed significant costs that have obscured the clarity of the country's foreign policy in the sub-region. Nigeria's foreign policy in the West African sub-region fostered amicable relations. Given its Afrocentric stance and significant economic advantages compared to other countries in the sub-region, Nigeria has maintained a non-dominant approach; however, its benign and progressive actions have often been misinterpreted by many neighbouring sub-regional states. Nigeria's particular focus on the West African sub-region must be reinforced, particularly in light of the need to harmonise military measures to mitigate the terrorism now afflicting the North East of the nation and the sub-region.