COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF NIGERIA’S FOREIGN POLICY UNDER MUHAMMADU BUHARI ADMINISTRATION 1983-1985 AND 2015-2021

Nigeria has pursued many foreign policies since 1960 consequently, this research focus on a ‘comparative analysis of Nigeria’s foreign policy under Muhammadu Buhari administration 1983-1985 and 2015-2021’ had examined Nigeria’s foreign policy under Buhari's watch. The objectives of the research included to: identified Nigeria’s foreign policy under Buhari military and civilian administration; identified their similarities and differences and to suggest ways of improvement. Comparative content analytical tools were adopted due to the nature of data sources which were qualitative. War against indiscipline, economic recovery and redeeming Nigeria’s image abroad were the 1983-1985 foreign policy thrust. While combating Boko Haram insurgency, fighting corruption and restructuring the declining national economy were the civilian foreign policy focus. Economic diplomacy instruments were used in both epochs. Combating corruption and economics with radical behaviour were found in both administrative conjectures. On the other hand, the civilian administration differs from the military in borrowing and failure to ensure security. It’s recommended that Nigeria’s foreign policy should be based on national interest. Borrowing should be based on need and development. Professionalism should be ensured in foreign policy making and implementation.