Government Keypoint: Relations with African Countries; This study material is suitable for students sitting for the following exams: JAMB, WAEC, NECO, GCE, IJMB, and JUPEB.
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Government Keypoint: Relations with African Countries
Relations with African countries are integral to Nigeria’s foreign policy, reflecting its commitment to fostering unity, development, and cooperation within the African continent. Nigeria regards Africa as a cornerstone of its foreign policy strategy, aiming to promote regional stability, economic growth, and mutual partnerships across the continent.
The engagement with Africa is driven by various principles and initiatives, notably the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), aimed at addressing socio-economic challenges and promoting sustainable development.
Africa as the “Centre Piece” of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy:
Guiding Principles: Nigeria’s foreign policy towards Africa is guided by principles such as pan-Africanism, regional integration, solidarity, and non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations. These principles underscore Nigeria’s commitment to fostering unity among African countries, supporting peace initiatives, and enhancing economic cooperation.
Implementation: Nigeria actively engages in various continental organizations like the African Union (AU), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and other sub-regional bodies to drive regional integration, conflict resolution, and economic development.
Implications: Nigeria’s active involvement in African affairs enhances its influence and leadership status within the continent. It allows Nigeria to contribute significantly to peacekeeping efforts, conflict resolution, and capacity building, projecting the country as a key player in African affairs.
NEPAD – New Partnership for Africa’s Development:
Origin:
NEPAD is an African-led initiative established in 2001 by African heads of state to address developmental challenges in Africa. It aims to eradicate poverty, promote sustainable growth, and integrate Africa into the global economy through strategic development programs.
Major Objectives:
NEPAD focuses on promoting good governance, infrastructure development, human capital development, agriculture, and economic growth. It emphasizes home-grown development policies, peer review mechanisms, and partnerships with the international community for sustainable development.
Implications:
NEPAD’s initiatives have led to improved infrastructure, increased access to education and healthcare, enhanced agricultural productivity, and the attraction of investments in African countries. NEPAD’s programs contribute to fostering economic growth and addressing socio-economic challenges across the continent.
Role of Nigeria in Continental Affairs: Nigeria plays a pivotal role in African continental affairs due to its size, strategic location, economic strength, and historical leadership in the fight against colonialism and apartheid. It actively participates in peacekeeping missions, mediates in regional conflicts, and provides support in capacity building and socio-economic development initiatives.
Roles of NEPAD in Developing Africa:
NEPAD catalyzes sustainable development in Africa by fostering good governance, infrastructure development, human capital enhancement, and economic growth. Its initiatives aim to address challenges hindering Africa’s progress and foster partnerships for development, contributing significantly to the continent’s transformation.
Nigeria’s active involvement in African affairs and NEPAD’s strategic interventions underscore the country’s commitment to regional integration, peace, and socio-economic development across the continent, positioning itself as a leading force in Africa’s progress and development.
