Abuja: The Federal Government has announced a strategic recalibration of Nigeria’s foreign policy to directly support national defence and security objectives. The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, made this known in Abuja during the launch of the book ‘Shadows of Power’ by retired Rear Admiral Sola Oluwagbare.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Enikanolaiye emphasized that the current administration has redefined its diplomatic doctrine to yield tangible benefits for citizens, particularly in the areas of security, defence, and economic resilience. He noted that the policy, which aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s foreign policy 4 Ds, is designed to advance national interests, with priorities focusing on demography, development, democracy, and diaspora.
The minister highlighted the importance of Nigeria’s immediate neighborhood, stressing that instability in surrounding countries could pose a direct threat to national security. Enikanolaiye underscored the emerging trend of placing Nigerians, border stability, and strategic interests at the forefront of external engagements, particularly in regions like the Sahara and neighboring countries.
Furthermore, Enikanolaiye asserted that Nigeria must ensure domestic stability and security to effectively project influence in Africa and globally. He revealed that Tinubu’s security strategy reforms aim to fortify the home front, enabling a more dynamic and activist foreign policy. He also mentioned Nigeria’s pursuit of ‘strategic autonomy,’ aligning with national interests rather than adhering to fixed blocs.
The minister clarified that Nigeria continues to maintain relationships with historical partners such as Russia, China, Turkey, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia, while simultaneously strengthening ties with the United States and other nations to address domestic security challenges.
Highlighting ongoing reforms in the ministry, Enikanolaiye mentioned initiatives like enhanced record management, mandatory training, exam-based promotions, and merit-driven postings as essential to developing a foreign policy that supports national defence and security goals.
Speaking at the event, author Rear Admiral Sola Oluwagbare stated that his book aims to examine the influence of Nigeria’s relationships with world powers on its national security. He described the book as a preliminary step towards achieving national consciousness and informed discourse on Nigeria’s potential to become a regional authority and global influencer.