This study presents a comparative analysis of Nigeria’s foreign policies under the administrations of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (2007-2010) and President Goodluck Jonathan. It explores the shift in Nigeria’s foreign policy focus from the assertive African-centered approach of past leaders to a more internally oriented strategy under Yar’Adua, characterized by a concentration on domestic issues such as corruption and the Niger Delta crisis. Criticized for its perceived inactivity and lack of assertiveness in regional and global affairs, Yar’Adua’s administration faced challenges in international representation and engagement, highlighted by Nigeria’s absence at key global summits like the G-20 Pittsburgh Summit. Conversely, the Jonathan administration’s “Transformation Agenda” emphasizes the welfare and protection of Nigerian citizens at home and abroad, prompting a reevaluation of Nigeria’s foreign policy to adapt to the demands of a competitive global environment. In response to domestic challenges such as insecurity, poverty, and corruption, Jonathan’s administration sought to reorient Nigeria’s foreign policy towards investment and engage a wide range of stakeholders in charting a path forward. This study aims to provide insights into the evolution of Nigeria’s foreign policy under these two leaders and their respective approaches to navigating regional and global dynamics.

Tags: African-centered approach, comparative analysis, domestic challenges, foreign policy, international relations, Nigeria, President Jonathan, President Yar'Adua, regional dynamics, Topics in History and Diplomacy, transformation agenda