Continuity and Changes in Olusegun Obasanjo Administration’s Foreign Policy (1976-1979 and 1999-2007)

This research highlighted the evaluation of Nigeria foreign policy from independence to the administration of Olusegun Obasanjo who served as the country’s military head of state from 1976 to 1979 and later as a democratic elected president from 1999 to 2007. The work examines the continuity and change in the foreign policy of Olusegun Obasanjo administration during his two distinct period: 1976 to 1979 and 1999 to 2007. The study used a qualitative approach in drawing, mainly on secondary source to identify the key policies, objectives and leadership role involved in Nigeria’s foreign relations that account for the continuity and changes witnessed during the two periods. The study analyzed how Obasanjo’s foreign policy evolved overtime and underlying factors that influence the changes in the foreign policy and it also evaluate the impact of these polices on Nigeria's relations with other countries and it's standing in international community. The findings shows that Obasanjo’s foreign policy administration was shaped by a combination of domestic and international factors such as regional integration, economic development, African unity etc While there was some continuities in Nigeria’s foreign policy during both period such as a focus on Africa and efforts to enhance Nigeria status in the international system, there were also notable changes, particularly in terms of Nigeria’s relationship with the West and it's engagement with global governance institution. Also, the work highlighted the roles of Obasanjo’s leadership skills and personality traits in shaping Nigeria foreign policy in these two periods. The work concluded that the Obasanjo’s foreign policy administration was complex and multifaceted, reflecting the challenges and opportunity that Nigeria faced during these period of it's history and also contributed to a better understanding of the countries roles in regional and global order.