Federal Government Promises to Restore Nigeria’s Global Influence with Foreign Policy Reforms

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The federal government has reaffirmed its determination to reshape Nigeria’s foreign policy framework through comprehensive reforms, aiming to restore the country’s influential diplomatic voice that it held during the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.

During the public launch of “Shadows of Power,” a book written by Rear Admiral Sola Oluwagbire (rtd), the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, explained that Nigeria’s global visibility is being deliberately rebuilt through systematic institutional changes and a renewed strategic vision.

He noted that although “our visibility may have dimmed a little, we are committed to bringing it back,” emphasizing that the current administration is focused on restoring credibility, relevance and influence on the world stage.

The Special Guest of Honour described how the government is realigning diplomatic practice around a “Nigerian first” doctrine, under which “every foreign policy action we take must speak to Nigeria.”

According to him, this approach places national interest, citizen welfare and strategic autonomy at the centre of all external engagements.

Enikanolaiye added that Nigeria’s foreign policy is now built on four key pillars—demography, development, democracy and diaspora engagement— with a particular focus on ensuring that international relations translate into tangible benefits for citizens.

“Nigeria’s foreign policy exertions must bring benefits directly to Nigerians,” he said, adding that sustainable international relevance cannot be separated from domestic stability, economic strength and national security.

He further explained that strategic autonomy does not mean isolation, but rather “alignment to our national interest,” affirming Nigeria’s continued openness to partnerships with global actors including the United States, China, Russia, Turkey and BRICS member states.

On institutional restructuring, the minister disclosed ongoing efforts to strengthen the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through enhanced record‑management systems, predictable diplomatic postings and compulsory training and examinations as prerequisites for career advancement.

He stressed that “every officer must undertake prescribed training, write an exam, and pass before they can be presented for promotion,” noting that the reforms are designed to align diplomatic service standards with the discipline and professionalism found in the military.

He also referenced long‑standing defence cooperation with international partners, including United States military assistance dating back to 2000, describing such relationships as part of a broader effort to reinvigorate Nigeria’s diplomatic and security engagements in response to evolving global challenges.

At the event, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who chaired the occasion, said the book provides practical insights into building the foundations for Nigeria’s emergence as a global power. He was represented by former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), who commended the author for contributing to national development through scholarly work after retirement, describing the effort as a valuable intervention in education and nation‑building.

Similarly, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd), said Nigeria’s pathway to superpower status lies in sustained industrialisation and