Theory question 111
Nigeria's Foreign PolicySection B: Political and Constitutional Developments in West Africa and International Relations
(a) What is foreign policy?
(b) Outline the basic factors that influence Nigeria's foreign policy.
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(a) Foreign policy is the set of principles, goals and strategies a state uses in its relations with other states and international organisations.
(b) Size and population; economic resources (oil wealth); geographical location (in West Africa, neighbours); colonial history and ties with Britain/Commonwealth; ideology (non-alignment); nature of government (military or civilian) and its leaders; ethnic and religious composition; public opinion and pressure groups; military strength; membership of international organisations (UN, OAU/AU, ECOWAS, OPEC); national interest and security.
Define, then outline at least five factors.