Policy experts at Nextier, a leading policy and research firm, have expressed serious concerns over the declining diplomatic influence of Nigeria, warning that the nation’s long-standing ambition to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is facing significant threats due to internal challenges.
In a newly published report by Nextier, titled “Nigeria’s Waning Influence: Can the Giant of Africa Reclaim Its Diplomatic Might?”, the firm highlights how Nigeria’s diplomatic setbacks stem primarily from rising domestic socio-economic issues, particularly the alarming rate of youth unemployment.
The report, co-authored by legal and policy analysts Olive Aniunoh and Khadijat Shuaibu, provides an in-depth analysis of how the soaring unemployment rate among Nigeria’s massive youth population is directly contributing to increasing social unrest, crime, and even recruitment into militant organizations. These factors, according to the report, are significantly undermining Nigeria’s credibility as a regional powerhouse and diminishing its influence on the global stage.
“Nigeria’s large youth population presents both an opportunity and a looming crisis,” the report states. “The rapid increase in youth unemployment has left millions of young Nigerians disillusioned, pushing many into criminal activities, social unrest, and even extremist groups. If these challenges are not urgently addressed, they could further destabilize the nation and weaken its ability to assert its leadership in Africa and beyond.”
Threat to Nigeria’s UN Security Council Aspirations
The Nextier report further warns that the Nigerian government’s slow response to these socio-economic issues is not only threatening its domestic stability but also weakening its diplomatic leverage. The report emphasizes that Nigeria’s inability to address youth unemployment and other internal struggles is negatively affecting Africa’s overall security, economic growth, and geopolitical influence.
“Nigeria’s diplomatic strength is being eroded at a time when its role as a regional leader is critical,” Nextier cautions. “Beyond just maintaining diplomatic relevance, Nigeria’s dream of securing a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is being severely undermined by its failure to tackle pressing domestic issues.”
In order to reclaim its lost influence, Nextier urges Nigeria to take a more proactive role in regional and global diplomacy. The report calls for the country to strengthen its leadership within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), positioning itself as a key mediator in resolving conflicts, shaping policies, and advancing Pan-African economic development.
Additionally, the report stresses the importance of Nigeria building strategic diplomatic alliances to bolster its bid for a UNSC seat. As Africa’s largest economy and most populous country, Nigeria is in a unique position to rally support from other African nations and international partners to push for its recognition as a permanent member of the Security Council.
Addressing Youth Unemployment to Restore Influence
One of the most critical recommendations from the report is addressing Nigeria’s growing youth unemployment crisis, which it identifies as a fundamental issue eroding the country’s diplomatic standing.
“Nigeria’s youth are its greatest asset, but widespread joblessness has turned this asset into a growing problem,” the report notes. “The frustration and hopelessness among young people are not just a national crisis; they are contributing to Nigeria’s diminishing influence in global affairs.”
To reverse this negative trend, Nextier advises the Nigerian government to prioritize comprehensive policies that foster job creation, skills development, and economic growth. The report calls for increased investment in education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship programs to equip young Nigerians with the necessary skills for a competitive global job market.
Moreover, Nextier stresses the importance of creating an enabling business environment that supports startups, small businesses, and technological innovation, thereby generating more employment opportunities for Nigeria’s youth. The report also recommends policy reforms that incentivize both local and foreign investments, helping to boost job creation and economic stability.
By addressing these pressing challenges, Nigeria can not only restore its global influence but also strengthen its bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, ultimately securing its position as a leading voice for Africa on the world stage.