Nigeria Reconsiders Africa‑First Foreign Policy After Xenophobic Violence in South Africa

Nigeria first placed Africa at the heart of its foreign policy at independence in 1960, believing the nation’s future lay with the continent. The stance was formalised in 1976 when the Murtala/Obasanjo regime declared Africa the “centrepiece” of Nigeria’s external relations. For decades Nigeria used this doctrine to lead peacekeeping missions, fund liberation struggles and host African summits. Over the years Nigeria contributed troops, finances and diplomatic backing to conflicts ranging from Liberia to Sudan, earning it a reputation as Africa’s “big brother”.

Violent protests and attacks in South Africa have destroyed Nigerian‑owned businesses, caused property loss and led to the deaths of innocent Nigerians. There are almost no public records showing that those responsible for these attacks have been seriously prosecuted or punished. Nigeria officially declared Africa the centrepiece of its foreign policy in 1976 under the Murtala/Obasanjo regime.

The repeated violence and lack of accountability have prompted many Nigerians to question whether a policy that prioritises continental solidarity still protects citizens abroad. Critics argue that unreciprocated hostility undermines the moral weight of Nigeria’s historic support for anti‑apartheid and peacekeeping efforts. Policymakers are now weighing a shift toward a more reciprocal approach that ties diplomatic privileges to the safety of Nigerians in partner countries. Such a change could affect Nigeria’s role in regional bodies like the African Union and its future peacekeeping contributions. Analysts note that any reorientation will need to balance continental leadership with the imperative to safeguard Nigerians living overseas. Observers will watch for the government’s upcoming foreign policy review and any concrete measures taken to protect nationals in South Africa.