Continuity and change in foreign policy : a comparative study of Nigeria's conflict resolution initiatives in Liberia and Guinea-Bissau, 1989-2010

Abstract

This study examined Nigeria's role in conflict resolution in the West African sub-region within the ambit of the principle of "concentric circles" in its foreign policy. The research was carried out with particular reference to Nigeria's peace initiatives in Liberia and Guinea Bissau under the auspices of the ECOW AS Ceasefire Monitoring Group, ECOMOG. The main objective of the research is to determine why Nigeria, considered as the sub-regional "hegemon," refused to restore peace in Guinea-Bissau as it did in Liberia, given the country's avowed commitment to conflict resolution and peacekeeping efforts in Africa and other parts of the world. Conflict resolution efforts have earned Nigeria much respect in the council of nations as the "giant of Africa." This study employed content analysis of historical documents, academic works, oral interviews, government records, reports of international organisations and internet sources as a baseline for its arguments. The interdependence and hegemonic stability theories were used as the theoretical framework in which the implications of Nigeria's power dynamics within the West African sub-region was examined. The country did not only contribute to but spearheaded the formation of the interposition force of the sub-regional ECOWAS Ceasefire Monitoring Group, ECOMOG. This deed was followed by the country's single-handed footing of the bill of ECOMOG deployment to Liberia and Sierra Leone, while the missions lasted. It was found out that the non-appearance of Nigerian troops in Guinea-Bissau against its hitherto role is greatly influenced by the limitations imposed on the country by domestic factors and internal political dynamics. This situation has added a new dimension to the analysis of sub-regional conflict resolution efforts. It has equally provided a fresh perspective on the limitations of Nigeria's role at preventing war and violence in West Africa, in relation to its size, capacity and capability in the sub-region, and what the international community expected of her. Consequently, it is recommended that for effective sub-regional conflict resolution, 1gena needs to continue to use its position to diffuse tensions and build a sub-regional consensus in West Africa. Its position could best be utilised through multilateral action by alliance building

within and outside the region. This is because Nigeria is the only country best placed in the sub-region to meet the challenges and responsibilities that come with sub-regional leadership.