CHAPTER ONE

1.1 OBJECTIVE OF STUDY

This entire research work beams light on Nigerias Foreign Policy since Independence,
the effects of these policies on Her political and economic development, its limitations and
prospects.
Foreign Policy implies the technical decisions or strategies made by a government which
is aimed at manipulating the International communities on order to achieve certain national
interests. However, this research work is aimed at properly explaining Nigerias Foreign
Policy, reasons behind these policies, effects and implications of these policies as well as its
failures and successes as regards Her economic development.

1.2 SCOPE OF STUDY

This research work covers the evolution of Nigerias Foreign Policy, the centerpiece of
Her Foreign Policy, the reasons behind these policies, strength and weaknesses, success and
failures, Nigerias growth and development and the influence of these policies on the sociopolitical and economic development of Nigeria.

1.3 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

It is important to understand the domestic and international problems affecting or
determining the success and failure of Nigerias Foreign Policy;
1. Economic instability; the prevailing situation of the Nigerian economy go a long way in
affecting Her Foreign Policy. Economic instability in the country is one great factor
affecting the policies She makes in relation to other countries of the world.
2. Neo-colonization; the influence of Nigerias colonial masters on Her Foreign affairs and
policies has always been a major problem. This is so because Nigeria like many other
African countries sought to please their colonial masters as regards their Foreign policies.
3. Corruption; corruption in the country is also a huge factor affecting the effective making
and implementation of Nigerias Foreign Policy. Instead of making policies that would
benefit the country, corrupt leaders are more inclined to policies that would suit them at
the detriment of the entire countrys wellbeing.

1.4 RESEARCH METHOD

The historical research method is dominantly used throughout this research work
to examine Nigerias Foreign Policy, its implication on the socio-political and economic
development of the country. Through the use of secondary research resources such as
journals, scholars research, books and archives, a historic analysis of Nigerias Foreign
Policy and its impact and Her development is properly examined.
1.5 LIMITATION OF STUDY
The following factors have been a limitation to this research work:
1. Inadequate access to information
2. Inadequate access to resources
3. Time management

1.6

DEFINITION OF TERMS
The various terms and concepts that are used in the course of this research work

shall be defined accordingly in the context in which they are used for a better
understanding of this research work.