DISCOURSE ON THE PURSUITS OF NATIONAL INTEREST: A REGIMES ANALYSIS OF NIGERIA’S FOREIGN POLICY- (2019-2026)

Abstract

For over six decades, Nigeria’s foreign policy has been defined by its Afrocentric posture, regional leadership ambitions, and the constant struggle to translate diplomatic influence into tangible domestic benefits. This paper examines the critical period from 2019 to 2026, spanning the second term of President MuhammaduBuhari and the first term of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Using a qualitative, descriptive research design anchored in realist theory, the study analyses how Nigeria’s national interest particularly security, economic development, and regional leadership was pursued through foreign policy instruments. The findings reveal a notable evolution, from a predominantly security-driven, reactive posture under Buhari to the more proactive, economically focused “4Ds Doctrines” Demography, Development, Diaspora, and Democracy under Tinubu. However, persistent domestic insecurities, institutional weaknesses, and regional fragmentation notably the formation of the Alliance of Sahel State significantly constrained outcomes. While Nigeria enhanced its global visibility securing BRICS partner status and AU Peace and Security Council chairmanship, the direct benefits to Nigerian citizens remained uneven. The paper concludes that for foreign policy to truly serve national interest, Nigeria must resolve foundational domestic challenges and institutionalise policy framework for coherence beyond electoral cycles.