Impact Assessment of Nigeria’s Afrocentric Foreign Policy on Peace and Security in West Africa

The paper analyzes the impact of Nigeria’s Afrocentric foreign policy on peace and security in West Africa. Its goal is to assess how Nigeria’s foreign policy has contributed to regional stability in Africa through diplomatic leadership, institutional academic growth, economic integration, and military efforts. Using case studies, research, and scholarly evidence, this paper evaluates Nigeria’s influence on regional cooperation, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution, while also highlighting key limitations across the continent. It begins by examining the historical background of Nigeria’s Afrocentric foreign policy and how it has evolved under different governments. It also assesses Nigeria’s role in peacekeeping, conflict mediation, and capacity-building within ECOWAS, the African Union, and leadership in economic initiatives like AfCFTA. The paper uses a secondary source of data collection with thematic content analysis of data. Moreover. The paper adopted Regional Hegemony Theory, which posits that within geopolitical regions, dominant states often assume leadership roles, exercising influence through diplomatic, military, and economic instruments to maintain stability, shape regional norms, and promote their national interests. The findings show that Nigeria’s Afrocentric policy has provided significant support for peace, development, economic challenges, and governance issues, although legitimacy concerns among regional peers sometimes diminish its impact. The paper also recommends practical reforms to enhance Nigeria’s capacity and leadership in fostering sustainable peace and security across Africa.