States' Sovereignty, International Organizations, Global Markets and the Dynamics of the Policy Process in Nigeria

As Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria’s engagement with entities like the United Nations and global markets carries profound domestic and regional implications. While these relationships offer pathways to economic growth and cooperation, they have also deepened economic disparities, distorted policy processes, and fueled social unrest. This paper explores the complex relationship between national sovereignty, international organizations, and global markets, using Nigeria as a case study. The objective of this research is to highlight the limited sovereignty that has enveloped the Nigerian nation largely due to globalization and prescribe how the nation can navigate this course. Grounded in realist international relations theory and employing content analysis of documentary evidence, the study argues that although international organizations and global markets have contributed to Nigeria’s development, they have also undermined its sovereignty. The paper concludes that Nigeria must strategically navigate its global interactions to protect national autonomy and promote sustainable development. It calls for policies that priorities national interests, ensuring that international cooperation strengthens rather than weakens Nigeria’s internal governance and long-term stability.