Abstract
This study explores the nexus between Malaysian and Nigerian Foreign Policy by examining the personality traits of Mahathir, 1981-2003 and Obasanjo, 1999-2007 respectively. The overriding consideration of national interest and foreign policy of a country reflect keen perception of, and determined by, national leaders. The study examines the divergence and convergence in foreign policy making of the two personalities. Historical-descriptive approach was used as a method of data collection and analysis. Utilizing secondary data in testing their influence, the findings reveal that Obasanjo’s idiosyncrasy has approximate similarity with Mahathir’s on high level of understanding internal, regional, and international dynamics, and aligned strategic survival of their states with broader regional and global trends. While MFP consolidates the ideal principles of Mahathir, NFP experiences policy somersault. Given this scenario, the paper argues for a significant shift from Afro-centric to institutionalized Nigerian-centric policy thrust, if development must be genuinely experienced and sustained in Nigeria. Territorial defense, and security of live and property are the hallmarks for national survival cum development of any nation. In the circumstance, we consider periodic evaluation of national interests and specific bilateral security treaty in all ramifications as a highly useful and pivotal option. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n6s4p125
Highlights
Foreign policy studies of developing countries in general have been either very narrow in their focus, such as based on the nonalignment theme, or comprehensive without being historically dynamic, and comparative without examining being inter continent in their analysis
It is pertinent to note that the contemporary situation of Malaysia and Nigeria is a fundamental example of decisions made in the past by the decision makers and the importance placed on the domestic environment in shaping the nation’s foreign policy
Internal political events usually have a lot of impact on foreign policy (Bulley, 2014), the overriding consideration in foreign policy implementation is, and should, always based on the concept of national interest, Malaysia and Nigeria are no exception as the following discussion will demonstrate
Summary
Foreign policy studies of developing countries in general have been either very narrow in their focus, such as based on the nonalignment theme, or comprehensive without being historically dynamic, and comparative without examining being inter continent in their analysis. The foreign policy of any country is premised on key concepts stemming from its own unique historical experience, its present level of achievement, its aspiration as a nation-state among the comity of nations, and its perceptions of national potential in relation to the opportunities and constraints arising from the character of the international system. The persistence of these long-term national interests and structural factors generally determine foreign policy making regardless of who holds political power.
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