Question
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Identify any five factors that motivated Nigeria to join the Organization of African Unity (OAU).
Observation
This was one of the most popular questions but was poorly answered by the candidates. Many candidates mainly discussed the aims and objectives of OAU without connecting them to Nigerian interests. They were expected to relate the objectives of the organization to Nigeria’s experience especially the ones that influenced them to join it. However, few candidates who attempted to do so lacked adequate historical facts required to get high score. The underlisted points were expected to be discussed by candidates in order to get good marks:
- The desire to help other African countries to gain independence from colonial rule motivated Nigeria to join OAU.
- The desire of many independent African States, including Nigeria to create a loose association.
(iii) Nigeria wanted to be part of this organization that planned to speak with one voice in international fora.
(iv) Nigeria wanted to defend her sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence as well as those of other states.
- Nigeria wanted to derive political, diplomatic and economic benefits from
the organization.