Nigeria’s International Image and the Challenges Facing her Foreign Policy, 2011-2023.

Abstract

The study examined Nigeria’s international image and the challenges facing the implementation of her foreign policy from 2011-2023. Social constructivism theory was employed. Information/data for the study were generated from both primary (interview) and secondary sources. The study revealed that the problem of Nigeria’s foreign policy that is affecting the country’s image is not in formulation, but in implementation. The findings, shows that more than external challenges, it is the internal challenges that are dampening Nigeria’s attainment of positive international image and national transformation. Some of these challenges include leadership crisis, corruption, insurgency, irregular power supply, low quality public service delivery and rating of the nation’s educational institutions amongst others. Use of politicians instead of professionals in the use of Nigeria foreign policy has also hinders or minimizes the positive outcome. Nigeria foreign missions today encompass politicians appointed as ambassadors to represent the national interest of the people meanwhile they are often misled because they lack the professional skills to work effectively. The study recommended that the government should have a rethink of political, economic and social factors of governance. The policies and programmers of government should be people-centric and driven by interest, preferences and values that promote human security. The government needs to create the institutions and policy connection that
will serve the efficient purpose of citizen’s diplomacy. Nigerians cannot be experiencing lack of fundamental human rights; compromised judiciary, police brutality and absence of rule of law, yet the government will be demanding international best practices treatment from other countries on her citizens.