Question

Difficulty: MediumPrinciples of Nigeria's Foreign Policy and Afrocentricity

In the execution of its diplomatic relations since independence, Nigeria has consistently adopted 'Afrocentricity' as a foundational pillar of its foreign policy. Which of the following best illustrates the practical application of this principle?

  1. A
    Adopting total diplomatic and economic isolationism from non-African global powers and international bodies
  2. Prioritizing the decolonization of African territories, combating apartheid, and promoting regional peace and integrationAnswer
  3. C
    Formally aligning with Western superpower blocs during the Cold War to secure domestic development assistance
  4. D
    Surrendering national political sovereignty to the ultimate legal authority of external multilateral organizations

Answer

Prioritizing the decolonization of African territories, combating apartheid, and promoting regional peace and integration
The principle of Afrocentricity places Africa at the center of Nigeria's foreign policy. Practically, this has manifested in active support for decolonization, opposition to apartheid, leadership in conflict resolution through ECOMOG, and championing economic integration across West Africa and the continent.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define Afrocentricity in the context of Nigeria's foreign policy
Identify that Afrocentricity designates Africa as the centerpiece of Nigeria's diplomatic engagement and foreign policy objectives.
Understanding the core definition establishes the criteria for evaluating practical historical actions.
2
Evaluate the practical expressions of Afrocentricity
Recognize key interventions such as leading anti-apartheid crusades, supporting liberation movements (e.g., in Angola, Zimbabwe, and South Africa), and establishing regional bodies like ECOWAS and supporting the OAU/AU.
Practical policies directly reflect the core foreign policy doctrine.
3
Differentiate Afrocentricity from common misconceptions
Confirm that Afrocentricity is neither continental isolationism nor alignment with external military superpowers.
Eliminating distorted definitions ensures accurate conceptual understanding.

Key Concept

Principles of Nigeria's Foreign Policy and Afrocentricity
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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