Observation

This was a popular question. The performance of the candidates who answered it was good as they understood its demands. However, some candidates did not score good marks in (b)  part because of skimpy answers. The candidates were expected to provide the following answers to the question:

(a)        Foreign policy is the principles, guidelines and strategy adopted by a country in conducting her relationship with other states while pursuing her national interest.

(b)        (i)         Africa centred: Africa is regarded as the centre-piece of Nigerian    foreign policy
(ii)        Historical/Colonial background and experience.
(iii)       Types of government e.g. military or democratic government.
(iv)       Population: large size and the quality of human resources of Nigeria                       affect her foreign policy.
(v)        Ideological disposition of the leaders: Nigeria relates more with those countries that share similar ideologies.
(vi)       The economic resources available to Nigeria e.g. mineral resources and                              agricultural products.
(vii)      Commitment to international laws, treaties and conventions.
(viii)     Public opinion on issues can bring changes in government’s foreign                       policy.
(ix)       The industrial strength of Nigeria influences her choice of trading                                       partners.
(x)        Membership and commitment to International Organizations.
(xi)       The military strength of Nigeria e.g. the size and quality of the army           influence her foreign policy.
(xii)      The activities of interest/pressure groups influence Nigeria’s foreign           policy.
(xiii)     Geographical location influences Nigeria’s foreign policy.
(xiv)     The desire for foreign investments and overseas market.
(xv)      The personality of the leaders.
(xvi)     National interest of Nigeria.
(xvii)   Religious and Ethnic factors