Professor Eghosa Osaghae asserts that the foreign trips of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are crucial for attracting foreign investments and addressing security challenges in Nigeria. He emphasizes the necessity of international cooperation in combatting transnational security threats and underscores the strategic relationship between Nigeria and Niger. Additionally, he notes that Nigeria’s potential inclusion in BRICS could open up new opportunities without jeopardizing existing ties with Western nations.
Professor Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, articulates the significance of recent foreign trips undertaken by President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. He argues that the investments made in these diplomatic missions yield substantial returns through foreign direct investment and economic development, which ultimately surpass their costs. These engagements are fundamental not only for attracting financial resources but also for reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa after a relative absence from the international forefront.
Addressing Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, Professor Osaghae acknowledges that attracting foreign investments is crucial for combating insecurity, as the nation lacks the technological capacity and weapons needed for effective defense. He emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, explaining that issues such as terrorism and banditry are transnational and cannot be mitigated by Nigeria alone. Professor Osaghae also highlights that Nigeria’s military possesses commendable competencies in asymmetric warfare, which has positioned the nation as an advantageous player in peacekeeping operations globally.
When discussing regional security dynamics, Osaghae reflects on the complex relations between Nigeria and its neighbors, particularly the military-ruled nations of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic. Despite these countries withdrawing from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), he believes that Nigeria and Niger will continue to collaborate due to their intertwining historical and strategic ties. The cross-boundary nature of security threats necessitates reciprocal cooperation, as what affects one nation impacts the broader region.
Furthermore, Professor Osaghae speaks on the potential implications of Nigeria’s possible membership in the BRICS coalition, clarifying that joining this group does not signify an anti-Western stance. He asserts that BRICS represents an opportunity for Nigeria to engage with emerging economies and diversify its international relations, while not undermining its established ties with Western nations. He concludes that multi-dimensional diplomatic approaches are essential for enhancing Nigeria’s development prospects and security landscape.
The article provides insights into the geopolitical and economic strategies embraced by Nigeria under the administration of President Bola Tinubu. It focuses on the significance of foreign diplomatic engagements and their potential to bolster the nation’s foreign investments while also tackling domestic security issues. Moreover, it elaborates on the intricate relationship between Nigeria and its neighboring countries, alongside the broader international implications of Nigeria’s foreign policy, particularly its association with groups like BRICS.
In conclusion, Professor Eghosa Osaghae emphasizes the critical role of foreign diplomacy in Nigeria’s development and security strategy. Foreign trips by national leaders are framed as necessary investments yielding significant returns, particularly in the context of combating insecurity which transcends national borders. The ongoing dynamics within ECOWAS and between Niger and Nigeria highlight the importance of collaborative approaches to regional security, while Nigeria’s potential association with BRICS emphasizes the need for diversified diplomatic relationships to navigate the complexities of global politics effectively.
Original Source: punchng.com
