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NIGERIA’S FOREIGN POLICY AND NATIONAL INTEREST UNDER THE

MUAHMMADU BUHARI ADMINISTATION, 2015-2023
By
YUNUSA UMAR NDAGI
School of International Relations and Diplomacy,
Beijing Foreign Studies University.
Email: umaryunusa500@gmail.com

ABSTARCT
This paper assessed Nigeria’s foreign policy and national interest under the Muhammadu Buhari
Administration from 2015 to 2023. The study objectives were to examine the impact of foreign policy on
Nigeria’s national interest under the Muhammadu Buhari administration, ascertain the challenges that the
implementation of Nigeria's policy under the Muhammadu Buhari administration and proffer solutions to
the challenges faced by the Muhammadu Buhari administration with regards to Nigeria’s foreign policy.
This research addresses national interest, foreign policy, and external relations gaps, omissions, and issues
raised by scholars and policymakers under the Muhammadu Buhari administration. The social
constructivism theory served as theoretical framework while descriptive research design was adopted while
the social constructivism theory served as theoretical framework. The finding reveals. Data for the study
were obtained from secondary and primary sources. The sample size of the study was 400. A total of 400
questionnaire copies were administered to respondents and 317 were returned. The paper identified a number
of challenges in Muhammadu Buhari's foreign policy. These bottle necks were lack of institutional
capacities, inadequate monitoring, political intervention, lack of well-defined policy frameworks,
insurgency, terrorism and corruption, the study recommends improved institutional capacity and
bureaucratic efficiency to overcome institutional insufficiency and inefficiency. Also, to improve poor public
and stakeholder engagement, the government must actively include citizens, civil society, and key
stakeholders in policymaking and execution.
Keywords: Diplomatic Relations; Foreign Policy; Global Influence; Institutional capacity; National Interest.

Introduction
Foreign policy is mostly driven by national interest. Foreign policy cannot be conducted in a vacuum
since it is fundamentally concerned with defending and advancing the national interests of a nation. Every
country's foreign policy serves or should serve its own interests (Eze 2010). Foreign policy is regularly
regarded as the basis upon which all global international relations are carried out. It also formulated to fulfill
the dreams of national interest, which in an actual sense relates to those interests which can be basic to the
all-round development politically, economically, socio-culturally and psychologically of the precise state or
country (Adeniran, 2007).
Both Levy (2013) and Aning, Abdallah, and Kofi (2017) agree that a state's foreign policy is a vital
tool for interacting with both other state and non-state entities in the global arena. The broad strategy that a
country utilizes to promote and safeguard its own national interests is known as its foreign policy. Over the
course of several administrations and changes in leadership, Nigeria's foreign policy has evolved repeatedly.
Levy (2013), Fawcett (2016), and Musa, Bashir, and Bello (2017) all claim that the characteristics of the
government and the leader of the country have a major role in shaping this occurrence.
The principles governing Nigeria’s international relations have changed throughout the country's
history since 1960, yet they have remained constant (Gambari, 2015). When it comes to international politics
and diplomacy, every country has its own unique set of national interests that it actively pursues (Folarin,
2010; Morgenthau, 1989). Aspiring global giants like Nigeria and others should have clear goals in mind.
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This paper is meant to serve as a roadmap for their future actions. In addition, it is crucial that these countries
clearly articulate their national commitments and interests. Ambitious nations with substantial worldwide
influence, such as the United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China, sometimes issue formal
texts outlining their national ambitions in international affairs. Major political parties, NGOs, and individual
people all have well-defined plans in place. Many people believe that Nigeria should keep moving forward
because of the positive impact it has had on Africa and the globe and because of the lofty goals it has set for
its foreign policy.Each country is a prominent participant in international politics and pursues its own unique
set of national interests in its dealings with other countries (Folarin, 2010; Morgenthau, 1989). If Nigeria and
other countries want to join the ranks of the world's elite, they will need a strategy to get there.
President Buhari earned the nickname "Jet-Setting President" due to his shuttle diplomacy between
various nations shortly after taking office in 2015. This was primarily due to the fact that he spent 25 percent
of his first 100 days in office travelling to different nations to advance the national economy. Immediately
after taking office, the president accepted the role of serving as the nation's top diplomat and foreign policy
advisor in order to reposition Nigeria in the world. This is largely attributable to the international landscape
in which Buhari found himself; according to Aning et al. (2017), this environment was marked by declining
oil prices, terrorism and counterterrorism, nuclear accords, and neo-liberalism, among other things.
Maintaining positive ties with Nigeria's neighbours while pursuing economic growth has been President
Muhammadu Buhari's top priority when it comes to foreign policy. This research examines Nigeria’s foreign
policy and national interest under the erstwhile Muhammadu Buhari administration.

Statement of the Problem

Numerous studies have demonstrated that governments may successfully manage their international
relations and protect their vital national interests by developing and implementing foreign relations
strategies. National interests include protecting a nation's boundaries, achieving its economic, military,
diplomatic, and strategic goals, and upholding any other ideals deemed important by the government
(Folarin, 2014). Nigeria's global actions will likely be determined by its national interests.The disorganized
Nigerian public doubts prior presidents' national interest proclamations.
Since 1960, Nigerian governments have pledged to advance national interests in international affairs
with focus on the country’s socioeconomic status or self-interest. As long as the state is a society with
different social classes, the ruling class's interests will remain the state's national interests, according to Igwe
(2007). Since independence, Nigeria's foreign policy has been ineffective due to a lack of skilled leadership,
according to Orizu (1996). This research addresses national interest, foreign policy, and external relations
gaps, omissions, and issues raised by scholars and policymakers.
In light of the foregoing, this study aims to investigate Nigeria’s foreign policy and national interest
under the erstwhile Muhammadu Buhari administration.

Research Questions
(a) What was the impact of foreign policy on Nigeria’s national interest under the Muhammadu Buhari
administration?
(b) What were the challenges in the implementation of Nigeria's foreign policy under Muhammadu
Buhari administration?
(c) What was the solution to the challenges faced by the Muhammadu Buhari administration with
regards to Nigeria's foreign policy?

Research Objectives
The objectives of this study is to investigate Nigeria’s foreign policy and national interest under the
Muhammadu Buhari Administration, while the specific objectives were to:
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(a) Examine the impact of foreign policy on Nigeria’s national interest under the Muhammadu Buhari
administration.
(b) Ascertain the challenges that the implementation of Nigeria's policy under the Muhammadu Buhari
administration
(c) Proffer solutions to the challenges faced by the Muhammadu Buhari administration with regards to
Nigeria’s foreign policy

Significance of the Study

The study on foreign policy and Nigeria’s national interest, specifically focusing on the appraisal of
the Muhammadu Buhari administration, holds significant importance for several reasons. Here are some key
points to consider:
Examining the foreign policy pursued by the Buhari administration provides insights into Nigeria's
approach to international relations during his tenure. It helps to analyze the goals, priorities, and strategies
adopted by the Nigerian government to safeguard and promote the country's interests on the global stage.
The study allows for an evaluation of the extent to which the Buhari administration's foreign policy decisions
were aligned with Nigeria's national interests. This assessment helps to gauge the effectiveness of the
government's efforts in protecting and advancing Nigeria's economic, political, security, and developmental
objectives on the international arena.
The study provides an opportunity to evaluate the diplomatic engagements undertaken by the Buhari
administration by assessing Nigeria's bilateral relations with key countries, its participation in regional and
global organizations, and its role in mediating conflicts and fostering regional stability.

Scope of the Study

This study examined the foreign policy and Nigerian national interest under the Muhammadu Buhari
administration, from 2015 to 2023. However, the research was limited to the foreign policy under President
Buhari administration.

Literature Review
Foreign Policy
In the disciplines of politics, history, international relations, and diplomacy, "foreign policy" is
frequently used to describe the relationships and exchanges that occur between nations. Adnan (2014)
contends that the concept should be divided down into its component parts foreign and policy for a fuller
understanding. In light of this, she defines policy as "a deliberate choice or a set of guidelines for making
strategic decisions in order to achieve one's objectives."
The term "foreign" is used to characterize areas that are not governed by a particular nation's
government. Adnan (2014) asserts that Ibrahim & Ibrahim (2017) propose expanding the definition of
"policymakers" to include NGOs, commercial corporations, and individuals operating at both the local and
international levels.
Ezirim (2010), a nation's foreign policy is its approach to national security, diplomatic relations, and
economic globalization as a whole. Diplomacy is the practice of negotiating relationships among states,
international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and individuals. Three pillars comprise a state's
foreign policy, (Adeniran, 2007). It is essential to consider a nation's global perspective and policy objectives
in relation to another nation. The second aspect relates to a nation's administration or international relations
objectives. The third aspect of foreign policy concerns the means by which particular objectives are attained.
A nation’s foreign policy comprises the concepts, objectives, and specific instruments that it employs to
develop and maintain relationships with other nations. The interaction of domestic and international factors
leads to the formulation of foreign policy. The promotion and defence of national interests are typically its
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primary objectives. These interests include maintaining national sovereignty, protecting territorial integrity,
advancing economic, military, and diplomatic interests, and preserving power and prestige to demonstrate
one's ability to engage with potential allies and genuine adversaries in international affairs (Daud, 2014).
National Interest
The term "national interest" has been defined in a variety of ways by researchers of foreign policy.
Considering the existing state of affairs, there is no agreed upon definition of the term. Rosati (2006) gargues
against the idea that anything may be generally considered "national." The acknowledgement of competing
private, social, economic, and national interests within any particular state forms the basis of this analysis.
As was initially envisioned (Rosati, 2006, as mentioned in Folarin, 2014), the goal of this effort is to
harmonize the several competing conceptions into a single concept of "national" interest.
An independent nation's top priority is to advance its own economy and society, for the sake of raising
the nation's standing and prestige at home and abroad. Echikwonye (2013), national interest is comprised of
international peace, political independence, geographical completeness, national defence, and economic
development. The above discussion relates to the innate belief that all nations have a strong desire to maintain
their political independence, defend their land, and advance their economic interests in order to better the
lives of their citizens and ensure the survival of their nation. In this sense, national interest may be seen as
the guiding principles behind a country's internal and foreign policy (Rosati, 2006).
Folorin (2014), Asobie (2007), and Atim (2006) all argue that "national interest" may be understood
to include the shared goals of citizens and businesses inside a given country. When considered in its
traditional context, the idea of national interest comprises the different methods governments use in their
dealings on the international arena to safeguard predetermined societal objectives. Therefore, it is clear that
national interest serves as a conduit via which foreign policy is generally created. Sklenka (2007) claims that
it is more of a means to an end than the other way around.

Nigeria’s Foreign Policy and National Interest

Since October 1960, Nigeria's foreign policy has been based on a set of key ideas (Ashiru, 2013).
Since 1960, Olukoshi (1992) and Eze (2010) say it's been hard to define Nigeria's national interest. Nigerians'
extensive embrace of diplomatic ideals and procedures may explain the result. Ashiru (2013), Ade-Ibijola
(2013), Eze (2010), and Agreen (2010) concur that Nigeria's national interests have been shaped by its
leaders. Nigerian foreign policy has emphasized decolonization, pan-African unity, and international peace
since Tafawa Balewa's administration. Nigeria's 1979 and 1999 constitutions sought to state its foreign policy
aims. African unity, full political, economic, social, and cultural autonomy, and international collaboration
were conceivable consequences.
This paper breaks down Nigerian foreign policy aims like others. International cooperation to promote
global peace and mutual respect, the cessation of all military conflict, adherence to international law and
treaty commitments, and dialogue, mediation, conciliation, and arbitration to resolve international issues are
supported.
A historical review of Nigeria's foreign policy illuminates its underlying values and worldview in the
current international situation. Self-determination and self-government shaped the country's foreign policy
throughout decolonization. Enlightened national interest, African solidarity, interdependence,
internationalism, an asymmetric global order, and supranational authority were additional philosophical
conceptions that developed throughout Nigeria's march to independence and sovereignty (Ogwu, 2005).
Chapter 2, Section 19 of Nigeria's 1999 constitution outlines its foreign policy objectives. Sections 19(a)–
(e) promote international collaboration to consolidate universal peace and eliminate all types of international
conflict and preserve the national interest. Nigeria's foreign policy hasn't changed since independence
(Akinboye, 2013). Personality, focus, institutional transformation, and historical factors inside and outside

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Nigeria account for most variances. Akinboye (2013) boldly reiterates: despite national interest shifts, regime
continuity is clear.

President Muhammadu Buhari Foreign Policy (2015 - 2022)

In 2015 president Muhammadu Buhari was elected. According to its campaign promises, the
administration's foreign policy was to help fight Boko Haram, enhance the economy to attract FDI, and
promote global corruption cooperation (Bello, Dutse, & Othman, 2017; Odubajo, 2017). In politics, Buhari's
honesty is well-known. According to Agbu (2015), the public views him as capable of ending insurrections
and stopping terrorist threats due to his military experience and his anti-corruption attitude. After
understanding that Boko Haram threatened national security, the new administration launched military and
diplomatic campaigns to combat it. Buhari's efforts to enlist the Lake Chad Basic Commission members,
Nigeria's northern-eastern neighbours, are proactive steps in fighting terrorism (Uduma & Nwosu, 2015).
Odubajo (2017), claims that such diplomatic efforts led to the creation of the Multinational Joint Task Force
(MNJTF) to fight Boko Haram in Lake Chad. Bello et al. argue that the Multinational Joint Task Force
(MNJTF) was unable to combat Boko Haram in 2017. Boko Haram has targeted MNJTF member nations in
response to their comprehensive campaign. This payback may be for supporting Nigeria's battle on terrorism.
Boko Haram's actions now have an international influence (Bello et al., 2017).
The Buhari government, like its predecessors, viewed economic diplomacy as a vital foreign policy
tool. After assuming office, Buhari used shuttle diplomacy, which harmed him. President Buhari visited the
US, China, the UAE, Germany, France, Saudi Arabia, and other countries with whom Nigeria has good
relations to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). The Buhari administration's participation in the G7 and
G20 Summits, diplomatic receptions in international capitals, and absence of foreign policy missteps support
the country's economic foreign policy. Adekaiyaoja (2017) claims the Buhari-led economic team worked
hard to attract foreign investments. Finance during economic turmoil may depend on Eurobond sales.
Nigeria's adoption of the Chinese Renminbi Yuan is crucial. After the two nations improved their ties. Buhari
accepted Xi Jinping's invitation to visit China a year after assuming office.
Bello et al. (2017), the voyage produced a strategy to enhance Nigeria's infrastructure and industrial
productivity. The Chinese National Development Reform Commission and the Nigerian Ministry of
Industry, Trade, and Investment signed the agreement. The trip also facilitated research and technological
cooperation between both countries. The journey took a week. After the visit, Nigeria received a portion of
the loan for infrastructure development, particularly rail transportation, as well as other projects and to make
up the 2016 budget gap. Odubajo (2017), alleges that $6 billion in Chinese government and private company
investments secured the loans.
Buhari was closer to the White House than his predecessor. Bello et al. (2017) noted that high-level
talks between President Obama and President Buhari started diplomatic relations under Buhari. The
President requested Oval Office meetings on July 20, 2016. President Obama pledged U.S. help to Nigeria
in the fight against Boko Haram and violent extremism.The then Nigerian President Buhari requested the
Obama administration’s assistance in fighting corruption. He also encouraged the government to assist to
strengthen the economy by reforming the energy sector to reduce oil theft. The visit's aims included President
Buhari's meetings with Vice President Joe Biden, Treasury Secretary Loretta E. Lynch, Attorney General
Jeff Sessions, and Deputy Defence Secretary Bob Work (Bello et al., 2017).
President Buhari's April 2016 visit to China enabled the mobilization of large financial resources for
infrastructure development, which greatly aided road, rail, and port projects. The People's Bank of China
and Central Bank of Nigeria's CNY 15 billion premium times (2023) currency swap deal was approved.
They revived American anti-corruption and security measures. Nigeria would get 12 new Super Tucano
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aircraft and 12 new AH-1Z Attack Helicopters, as well as the repatriation of looted funds and assets stashed
in the US. The 2018 African Land Forces Summit was held in Abuja. This US-Nigeria-organized gathering
was Africa's largest that year. UK and Nigeria established a $13 million educational initiative and economic
growth conference in 2018. This programme sought to protect 100,000 Northeast schoolchildren who have
suffered Boko Haram attacks. By equipping instructors, stocking facilities, and increasing safety, this will
be achieved. Nigeria received the 4.2 million British pounds the UK took from the Ibori family in 2021.
Premium Times (2023), the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI) revitalized around 40 mixing facilities in
Nigeria. The project simplified property purchase, joint venture share distribution, and gas supply contracts.
Nine UAE-country bilateral agreements and memorandums of understanding have been signed, while eight
more are being developed. Nigeria and the UAE have a signed and authorized extradition agreement for
Nigerian people who fled to the UAE after committing crimes in Nigeria and were detained there. Saudi
Arabia's Future Investment Initiative (FII) created a Saudi-Nigerian Strategic Council in 2019. This council
promotes economic growth, development, oil and non-oil investments, and security cooperation between the
two states. Germany contributed to Nigeria's Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), a six-year energy industry
revamp. Nigeria and Germany collaborate according to a government arrangement. In September 2022,
Nigeria received the Public-Private Partnership Initiative's first transmission equipment shipment (Premium
Times, 2023).

Challenges of President Muhammadu Buhari Foreign Policy

President Buhari's diplomatic inconsistency is a serious issue. Nigeria has sometimes taken strong
positions on regional and global problems and sometimes being seen as quiet or indecisive. Nigeria's allies
are confused by this discrepancy. Nigerian investors have a lot to look forward to, (Buhari, 2016). Buhari
(2016) says Nigeria's social stability would improve if security, corruption, and crime are reduced. These
initiatives may enable Nigeria, Europe, and the world reestablish full commercial relations. Boko Haram's
conflict in northeastern Nigeria and Niger Delta insurgency severely strained President Buhari's foreign
policy. The extremist group's violence and instability have strained Nigeria's relations with its neighbours,
compromising regional security. Insecurity may also explain Nigeria's GCI underperformance (Onuoha et
al., 2015).
President Buhari's foreign policy faced security dangers, economic dependence, regional diplomacy,
and human rights issues. Regional cooperation, a proactive approach, and an emphasis on diversifying the
economy while maintaining human rights and the rule of law are needed to overcome these barriers.

Theoretical Framework
The social constructivism theory was used to guide this study. This theoretical framework in
international relations studies how people categorize and rank their national interests, evaluate threats to
those interests, and interact. The research on international relations is placed in a larger social framework in
this study. The claim implies that a mix of social interactions and material elements shapes the preferences
and needs of states. Therefore, this theory contends that states' flexible identities and interests have an impact
on their behaviour (Weber, 2005). Constructivism acknowledges the existence of power in the global system
while emphasizing perception-influenced social relations, (Goldstein & Pevehouse, 2011).
Jackson and Sorensen (2006), social constructivism, often known as constructivism, prioritizes
personal experience and understanding above global issues. According to one theory, the international
system may be understood in terms of a common global consciousness where the importance of ideas
outweighs that of physical forces. Immanuel Kant, a well-known supporter of this theory, said that while it
is possible for people to learn about the cosmos, whatever information they do acquire about it must
unavoidably be subjective since it is filtered via human perspective. Human life depends on being able to

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comprehend and interpret one another's acts and behaviours (Hacking, 1991, quoted in Jackson and Sorensen,
2006).
A state's interactions with other states may have an impact on its identity and interests, according to
the constructivist theory. Institutions, regimes, norm shifts, and identity changes are more thorough
explanations of change than power dynamics, political forces, anarchy, or military force, (Goldstein &
Pevehouse, 2011). The constructivist theory is said to be based on the following tenets, which Alexander
Wendt (1995), originally stated, (Weber, 2005).
Examining Nigeria's national interests and foreign policy under President Muhammadu Buhari is the goal of
this research. The way other nations see a state may change when it uses social constructivism to change the
dynamics of its ties within the international system. To be more precise, if Nigeria can successfully portray
a favourable picture of itself via social interactions, its standing in the eyes of the international community
would rise.The Buhari government in Nigeria placed a high priority on the welfare of its citizens above a
variety of other considerations in its pursuit of foreign policy. The idea of individual responsibility served
as the driving force for the change in policy. The international community has to take full responsibility for
all of its interactions with the Nigerian people, both good and bad.

Methodology
Research Design
This study used a descriptive survey design method used to asses respondents’socio demographic
profile, which are sex, age, occupations, religion, and educational attainment to determine the assessment of
the foreign policy and Nigerian national interest under the Muhammadu Buhari Administration.

Population of the Study

"Population" refers to the complete group of people or items that share a set of traits, making it easier to
gather relevant information about them. The research population in this study therefore is as presented in
the table below:
Table 1: Population of the Study
S/N Group Frequency
1 Civil Servants 12,000
2 Politicians 10,000
3 Applicants 10,100
4 Students in Nigeria /Students Abroad In 16,000
Holiday In Nigeria
5 NGO’s 3000
6 Artisans / Traders 6000
Total 57,100
Sources: Field Survey 2023

Sample Size Determination

The calculation of the sample size that is needed to make statistically significant claims about the
population of Abuja was determined using the Taro Yamene formular.
n=N/N+1(e)2
n=Sample Size
N=Population Size
1=is constant
e = Margin of error
n=57,100/57,100+ 1(0.05)2
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n=57,100/57,100+ 1 (0.0025)
n=57,100/57,101 X 0.0025
n= 57,100/142.75 = 400

Sampling technique and procedure

Sampling selects a representative sample from a broader population to find general trends and outliers.
Probability and non-probability sampling methods wree used. The population was too large to poll everyone.
The stratified random sample contained 57,100 study participants. Table 1 illustrates the plan. Bourley's
proportional allocation technique divided the 400-person sample into study groups.
Bourley's proportionate allocation approach allotted 400 participants to four research groups.
n(n)
nb=
N
Where;
nb = Bourley formula

Research Instrument and Administration

In order to collect information for this research, a questionnaire was developed. In-person meetings
were used to hand out the questionnaire. The technique was used to help cut down on cases of unanswered
questionnaires. The researchers framed the study's goals and importance in terms of interactions between
humans

Method of Data Collection

The researchers' primary data collection instrument was the questionnaire. In addition, secondary data
sources such as books, journals, and the Internet were employed. The questionnaire was selected due to its
primary benefit of collecting information from a specified population.

Method of Data Analysis

The data analysis involved describing collected information. To ascertain the opinions of respondents,
the terms Agree, Disagree, and Neutral were employed. The analysis utilized the frequency and percentage
of responses. The findings summarize the investigation. Each table supplied the percentage for simple-
percentage-based statistical analysis.

Data Presentation and Analyses

The questionnaire data is shown below using frequency and percentage estimates.

Table 2: Sampling Distribution using Bourley’s Proportional Allocation Technique

S/N Group Population Sample size distribution

using Bourley’s technique
1 Civil Servants 12,000 12,000 X 400
nb= = 84
57,100
2 Politicians 10,000 10,000 X 400
nb= = 70
57,100
3 Applicants 10,100 10,100 X 400
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nb= = 71
57,100
4 Students in Nigeria /Students Abroad In 16,000 16,000 X 400
Holiday In Nigeria nb= = 112
57,100
5 NGO’s 3,000 3000 X 400
nb= = 21
57,100
6 Artisans / Traders 6,000 6000 X 400
nb= = 42
57,100
Total 57,100 400
Source: Field survey 2023.
Table 2 displays the sample distribution of Bourley's Proportional Allocation Technique across demographic
categories. Taking into account each group's proportion of the population, the preceding procedure
determines the size of its sample. Utilizing Bourley's Proportional Allocation Technique, the population is
sampled proportionally.

Table 3: Distribution and Return Rate

N/S Statement Frequency Percentage
1 Returned 317 79%
2 Not returned 46 12%
3 Invalid 37 9%
4 Total 400 100%
Source: Field survey 2023.
Table 3 provides the distribution and return rate of the survey responses. The table indicates the number of
survey responses that fall into each category. In this case, 317(79%) responses were returned. Additionally,
46(12%) responses were not returned, and 37(9%) responses were considered invalid. This indicated that
majority of the respondents returned and participated in the research.

The Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the respondents

Table 4. The Demographic Characteristics of the respondents
S/N Variables Frequency Percentage(%)
1 Gender
Male 182 57
Female 135 43
Total 317 100
2 Age
20-29 90 28
30-39 136 43
40 & Above 91 29
Total 317 100
3 Religion
Christianity 187 59
Islam 125 39
Others 5 2
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Total 317 100

4 Educational Qualification
Diploma 70 22
HND 32 10
B.Sc 123 39
Other Qualifications 92 29
Total 317 100
5 Occupation
Civil Servants 92 29
Politicians 82 26
Applicants 51 16
Students 48 15
Artisans / Traders 44 14
Total 317 100
Source: Field Work (2023)

Table 4 presents information about the demographic characteristics of the respondents, including gender,
age, religion, educational qualification, and occupation. The table shows that the majority of the respondents
were male (57%), while the female respondents accounted for 43% of the total. The age distribution of the
respondents indicates that 43% of them were in the age group of 30-39, making it the largest age group. The
age group 20-29 accounted for 28%, and respondents aged 40 and above constituted 29% of the total.
Majority of the respondents identified themselves as Christians (59%), followed by Muslims (39%). A small
proportion of respondents (2%) indicated other religious affiliations. The educational qualification of the
respondents varied significantly. The largest proportion held a Bachelor of Science degree (39%), followed
by “Other Qualifications” (29%). Diploma and HND graduates accounted for 22% and 10%, respectively.
The respondents' occupations were diverse. Civil Servants and Politicians were the two most common
occupations, comprising 29% and 26% of the respondents, respectively. Applicants, Students, and
Artisans/Traders accounted for 16%, 15%, and 14%, respectively.

Answering of Research Questions

Table 5: The Impact of Foreign Policy on Nigeria's National Interest under Muhammadu Buhari
Administration
S/N Question Agree Disagree Neutral Total
1 The foreign policy initiatives pursued by 70 (22%) 195 (62%) 50(16%) 317(100%)
Muhammadu Buhari's administrations have
positively contributed to Nigeria's national
interest.
2 Nigeria's engagement with other countries 52 (16%) 222 (70%) 43(14%) 317(100%)
during Muhammadu Buhari's
administrations has resulted in improved
economic growth and development.
3 The foreign policy decisions made under 12 (3%) 300 (75%) 5(2%) 317(100%)
Muhammadu Buhari's administrations have
effectively addressed Nigeria's security
concerns and helped combat terrorism.

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4 The foreign policy approach of Muhammadu 62 (20%) 451 (79%) 4(1%) 317(100%)
Buhari's administrations has strengthened
Nigeria's diplomatic relations with key
regional and international partners
5 The foreign policy decisions made under 78(25%) 210 (66%) 29(9%) 317(100%)
Muhammadu Buhari's administrations have
effectively promoted Nigeria's image and
influence on the global stage.
Source: Researcher’s field survey, 2023

Data from table 5, indicate the impact of Foreign Policy on Nigeria's National Interest under Muhammadu
Buhari Administration. 62% of the respondents disagree that Muhammadu Buhari's foreign policy has
benefited Nigeria. 22% agree and 16% are indifferent. Nigeria's international engagement under
Muhammadu Buhari boosted economic growth. According to data analysis, 70% of participants disagree
with the assertion that Muhammadu Buhari's diplomatic policies' improved on Nigeria's economic
growth,16% agree while14% are indifferent. 75% of participants disagree with Muhammadu Buhari's foreign
policy decisions in tackling Nigeria's security issues and terrorism. 3% of people agree, and 2% are neutral.
As to whether or not Muhammadu Buhari's foreign policy has improved Nigeria's relations with major
regional and international allies. 79% of respondents disagree with Muhammadu Buhari's foreign policy
approach to strengthening Nigeria's diplomatic ties with key partners. 20% of people agree, whereas 1% are
indifferent. With regards to whether or not Muhammadu Buhari's foreign policy improved Nigeria's global
standing, 66% of participants disagree that Muhammadu Buhari's foreign policy actions have improved
Nigeria's global image and effect. A quarter of respondents agree, while 9% are indifferent.

Table 6: Challenges in the Implementation of Nigeria's Policy under Muhammadu Buhari

Administration
S/N Question Agree Disagree Neutral Total
1 Insufficient financial resources have 112(35%) 196(62%) 9(3%) 317(100%)
been a significant challenge in the
effective implementation of
Nigeria's policies under
Muhammadu Buhari's
administration
2 Political interference and\ 298 14 (4%) 5(2%) 317(100%)
44 lack of continuity in policy (94%)
implementation have negatively
impacted the effectiveness of
Nigeria's policies under
Muhammadu Buhari's
administration

3 Inadequate monitoring and 274(86%) 38 (12%) 5(2%) 317(100%)

evaluation mechanisms have
hampered the assessment and
improvement of policy

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implementation under Muhammadu

Buhari's administration
4 Insufficient coordination and 300(94) 12(4%) 5(2%) 317(100%)
collaboration among different
government ministries and agencies
have impeded the smooth
implementation of Nigeria's policies
under Muhammadu Buhari's
administration
5 The absence of clear policy 278(88) 32(10%) 7(2%) 317(100%)
frameworks and guidelines has
created, corruption, insurgency and
terrorism challenges in effectively
implementing Nigeria's policies
under Muhammadu Buhari's
administration.
Source: Researcher’s field survey, 2023

The data from Table 6 on challenges to the implementation of Nigeria's policy under Muhammadu Buhari
Administration, inidicated that 62% of participants disagree that financial constraints hindered Nigeria's
program implementation under Muhammadu Buhari. However, 35% agree, and 3% are neutral. The data
show that 95% of respondents think that institutional capability and bureaucratic inefficiencies hampered
Nigeria's endeavours under Muhammadu Buhari. 3% of people disagree, and 2% are neutral. Similarly, 94%
of respondents feel that political involvement and policy inconsistency, have hurt Nigeria's policies under
Muhammadu Buhari, 4% disagree and 2% are indifferent. During Muhammadu Buhari's presidency, 81% of
participants feel that public and stakeholder participation impeded policy implementation. 15% disagree, 4%
are indifferent.
Findings from table 6 indicated that 86% of the participants think that insufficient monitoring and evaluation
processes hindered policy review and improvement under Muhammadu Buhari. 12% disagreed, while 2%
were indifferent. Simlarly, 94% of participants think that poor coordination, corruption, insurgency,
terrorism and collaboration among government departments and agencies hampered Nigeria's policy
implementation under Muhammadu Buhari. 4% disagree and 2% are indifferent. Statistics show that 88% of
participants agree that the lack of well-defined policy frameworks and procedures hindered Nigeria's policy
implementation under Muhammadu Buhari. 10% disagree, 2% are indifferent.

Table 7: Solutions to Challenges Faced by Muhammadu Buhari Administration on Nigeria's Foreign

Policy
S/N Question Agree Disagree Neutral Total
1 Increasing the allocation of 305(96%) 10(3%) 2(1%) 317(100%)
financial resources towards
Nigeria's foreign policy initiatives
would help overcome the
challenges faced by Muhammadu
Buhari's administration.
2 Strengthening institutional 298 (94%) 8(3%) 11(3%) 317(100%)
capacity and improving

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bureaucratic efficiency would

contribute to the successful
implementation of Nigeria's
foreign policy faced under
Muhammadu Buhari's
administration
3 Ensuring policy continuity across 310 (97%) 5 (2%) 2(1%) 317(100%)
different administrations would
enhance the effectiveness of
Nigeria's foreign policy faced
under Muhammadu Buhari's
administration
4 Enhancing coordination and 302(95) 13(4%) 2(1%) 317(100%)
collaboration among different
government ministries and agencies
would help overcome challenges in
implementing Nigeria's foreign
policy faced under Muhammadu
Buhari's administration
5 Developing clear policy 312(98) 3(1%) 2(1%) 317(100%)
frameworks and guidelines would
provide a solid foundation for the
effective implementation of
Nigeria's foreign policy faced under
Muhammadu Buhari's
administration
Source: Researcher’s field survey, 2023

Table 7 describes how the present government can overcome Muhammadu Buhari administration’s foreign
policy challenges. Increased funding for Nigeria's foreign policy may help the government administration.
A total of 96% responders supported raising Nigeria's foreign policy budget. This action is vital to addressing
the current government’s international relations issues. In the same vein, 94% of the participants agreed that
institutional capability and bureaucratic efficiency will improve Nigeria's foreign policy while 97% agreed
that policy continuity between administrations would improve Nigeria's foreign policy. In a similar vein,
97% of participants said that increasing public involvement and stakeholder engagement would help
Nigeria's foreign policy succeed. From the table under review, 95% of the participants agreed that improving
coordination and collaboration across government ministries and agencies could help Nigeria's foreign
policy, while 98% of the participants agreed that well-defined policy frameworks and processes would
support the current administration's foreign policy.

Discussion of Findings
This research investigated foreign policy and Nigeria’s national interest under the erstwhile
Muhammadu Buhari Administration. Three research questions were raised and analyzed in this study.
Table 6, provided a clear picture of the demographic characteristics of the respondents. It showed the
distribution of respondents across gender, age groups, religious affiliations, educational qualifications, and

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occupations. This information is essential for understanding the profile of the study participants and helped
the researchers draw meaningful conclusions and insights from the data.
Table 7 showed that a considerable number of participants saw foreign policy's impact on Nigeria's
national interest during Muhammadu Buhari's administrations negatively. The individuals dispute the
possible benefits to the nation's interests, economic growth, security, diplomatic connections, and global
influence.
Data from table 8 revealed that Muhammadu Buhari's initiatives faced several challenges, among
which were financial resources, institutional capabilities, political intervention, stakeholder participation,
monitoring, coordination, corruption, insurgency, terrorism, and well-defined policy frameworks are these
issues. The replies address important policy implementation difficulties.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In conclusion, they were expressed dissatisfaction with Muhammadu Buhari's foreign policy during
his administration, citing its impact on economic growth, security, diplomatic relations, and global standing.
The data suggests a need for critical evaluation and adjustments in Nigeria's foreign policy strategies to align
with national interests and public sentiment. Institutional, bureaucratic, political, and coordination-related
challenges were identified as significant impediments to policy implementation during Buhari's
administration. The lack of financial constraints and well-defined policy frameworks were also a concern.
This paper can be used as feedback for future policy-making and implementation efforts in Nigeria,
emphasizing the need to address these challenges to enhance policy effectiveness and public satisfaction.
Key actions include increasing funding for foreign policy, improving institutional capability and bureaucratic
efficiency, ensuring policy continuity, involving the public and stakeholders, enhancing coordination and
collaboration among government entities, and establishing well-defined policy frameworks and processes.
For Nigeria to surmount its current foreign policy obstacles, it must employ strategic approaches that are
informed by a comprehensive analysis of its historical context and present circumstances. This may pave the
way for future efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties. Issues of national interest and foreign policy must receive
deserved attention from the prospective administrations in Nigeria by aligning the nation's course with
altering international political and economic trends.
To safeguard the interests and security of Nigeria, the country must implement a comprehensive national
policy. A country must first pursue its own interests in order to successfully navigate and govern future
regional and global affairs. It must also build trustworthy diplomatic relationships among nations to ensure
global stability presents significant obstacles.

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