Boko Haram And Nigeria’s Foreign Policy Shifts: An Analysis Of President Buhari’s Diplomatic Engagements

• John Moses Maikomo

  Department of Political Science and International Relations, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State

  Author

• Grace David

  Department of Political Science and International Relations, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State

  Author

• Abundant David

  Department of Political Science and International Relations, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State

  Author

• Jessey Dearsley Dabale

  Department of Political Science and International Relations, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State

  Author

This study examines the shifts in Nigeria’s foreign policy under President Muhammadu Buhari, particularly in response to the Boko Haram insurgency. The research explores how the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram has necessitated strategic diplomatic engagements and policy adjustments by the Buhari administration. It delves into the specific diplomatic initiatives undertaken by President Buhari to garner international support and cooperation in combating the insurgency. Linkage Theory was employed as the theoretical underpinning of the study. The study adopted secondary data and content analysis was utilised. The study interrogates key foreign policy changes, including strengthened alliances with neighboring countries, increased collaboration with international organizations, and enhanced military cooperation with global powers. The study revealed that under President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria's foreign policy focused on tackling domestic issues like corruption, insecurity, and economic recovery through international engagement. The administration pursued diplomacy to secure investments, bolster counterterrorism efforts against Boko Haram, and recover stolen funds. While Nigeria's global visibility improved, challenges such as underfunded diplomatic missions and delays in ambassador appointments hindered effectiveness, leading to criticism about the lack of a coherent diplomatic strategy. The study recommended the institutionalization of a whole-of-government foreign policy process to align diplomacy with domestic development, and the deep institutionalization of regional security and development cooperation to sustainably link military gains with human security in the Lake Chad Basin. 

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