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The Nigerian Influence on the Advancement of African Diplomacy


In a world full of conflicts, economic interdependence, and cultural diversity, diplomacy plays a crucial role. Africa's stride in the arena of international diplomacy has been significant and continues to shape world politics in ways unimagined. With a special focus on the West African nation of Nigeria, this piece looks into how the region's diplomacy has grown, matured, and influenced global politics.


A New Era in African Diplomacy



Since the independence wave of the 1960s, Africa has been a player in the diplomatic sphere, albeit with varying degrees of success (Hyden, 1980). From the onset, diplomacy in Africa had to wrestle with internal conflicts and external interference, largely a byproduct of the colonial era.

The formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, now known as the African Union (AU), marked the beginning of Africa's institutionalized diplomatic efforts. The AU has since evolved into a formidable diplomatic entity. Through initiatives like the African Peer Review Mechanism, Africa has cultivated a culture of self-assessment and mutual accountability in governance and economic management (Herbst & Mills, 2003).


The introduction of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) in 2001 under the auspices of the AU signaled the continent's renewed effort towards sustainable economic growth, regional integration, and the establishment of a peaceful and secure Africa (Mkandawire, 2005).


The Diplomatic Ripples of Africa



Africa's diplomatic influence goes beyond the continent. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), enacted by the U.S. in 2000, for instance, was a direct result of Africa's diplomatic initiatives. The Act aimed to assist the economies of sub-Saharan Africa and improve economic relations between the U.S. and the region (Mutume, 2000).

Moreover, African nations have been active in numerous diplomatic channels like the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the G20, pushing for reforms that reflect the continent's interests (Shaw, 2008).


Nigerian Diplomacy: Leading from the Front





Nigeria, often regarded as the "Giant of Africa," plays an instrumental role in shaping Africa's diplomatic landscape. Since its independence in 1960, Nigeria has projected its influence regionally and globally.

Regionally, Nigeria has shown leadership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), using diplomacy to resolve conflicts and foster regional integration. Nigeria's role in the Liberian and Sierra Leonean civil wars in the 1990s, where it led diplomatic and military efforts under ECOWAS's umbrella, attests to this (Adebajo, 2002).


Globally, Nigeria has been a vocal advocate for Africa in the UN, championing causes like decolonization, apartheid's abolition, and the reform of the UN Security Council to include permanent representation for Africa (Gambari, 1995).


Nigeria has also demonstrated diplomatic leadership in its fight against terrorism. It has initiated and backed regional cooperation against Boko Haram, leading to the creation of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF) in 2015 (Onuoha, 2016).


Moving Forward: Harnessing the Power of Diplomacy


In a globalized world, diplomacy's importance cannot be overstated. As African nations like Nigeria continue to refine their diplomatic strategies and presence, they can increasingly influence the global agenda. Their collective bargaining power can shape international policies that affect the continent directly.


African diplomacy has come of age, from the first faltering steps post-independence to becoming a formidable force on the international stage. The journey is far from over, but the strides made thus far are noteworthy. Through concerted, collective efforts, Africa will continue to redefine its diplomatic landscape and achieve a more prosperous, peaceful, and sustainable future.


References

- Adebajo, A. (2002). Building Peace in West Africa: Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea-Bissau. Lynne Rienner Publishers.

- Gambari, I. (1995). The Role of Nigeria in the Struggle Against Apartheid. The Round Table, 84(336), 529-543.

- Herbst, J., & Mills, G. (2003). The Future of Africa: A New Order in Sight?. Oxford University Press.

- Hyden, G. (1980). Beyond Ujamaa in Tanzania: Underdevelopment and an Uncaptured Peasantry. University of California Press.

- Mkandawire, T. (2005). African Intellectuals: Rethinking Politics, Language, Gender and Development. Zed Books.

- Mutume, G. (2000). AGOA: African Exports Rise, But From a Low Base. Africa Recovery, 14(3), 12-15.

- Onuoha, F. (2016). Boko Haram: Nigeria's Extremist Islamic Sect. Al Jazeera Centre for Studies.

- Shaw, T. (2008). Africa in the Global Political Economy: An Overview. International Affairs, 84(5), 907-932.


 

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