Nigeria Unveils 4D Foreign Policy Doctrine

By Iyojo Ameh

Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has introduced the country’s latest Foreign Policy Doctrine, labeled as the 4D Foreign Policy Doctrine, revolving around four core pillars: Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora.

During the inauguration and exhibition held in Abuja, Ambassador Tuggar elucidated the doctrine’s essence, citing its embodiment of Nigeria’s cultural values and aspirations.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Tuggar highlighted the doctrine’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s innovative foreign policy concept, asserting its crucial role in Nigeria’s and Africa’s developmental trajectory.

Underlining the universality of democracy as a governance model guaranteeing freedoms and human rights, Ambassador Tuggar emphasized the imperative of fortifying democratic institutions to serve the collective interests of the Nigerian populace. He acknowledged President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening democracy amidst prevailing challenges.

The Minister also addressed impediments to democratic growth, advocating for leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) to facilitate trade. Stressing economic cooperation, global health initiatives, and transparent governance, he emphasized the potential of these strategies in fostering sustainable socio-economic development.

Highlighting Nigeria’s demographic strength, with a population exceeding 200 million, Ambassador Tuggar linked this demographic advantage to the doctrine’s four foundational pillars. He expressed a keen interest in utilizing foreign policy and diplomatic engagements to showcase the skills and talents of Nigeria’s youth for national development and to engage the diaspora.

Furthermore, Ambassador Tuggar emphasized the vital role played by Nigerians in the diaspora, recognizing their substantial contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth through remittances. Echoing President Tinubu’s vision, he emphasized tapping into the diaspora community’s expertise as a catalyst for Nigeria’s progress and as a source of direct investment opportunities.

Ambassador Tuggar also, reiterated the significance of a well-structured diaspora community, underscoring its potential to enhance Nigeria’s global image and further propel the nation’s development on the international stage.*