Project Abstract

Nigeria has played a significant role in the formation of regional organizations in Africa. This research project examines the historical background and current involvement of Nigeria in regional integration efforts on the continent. Nigeria's participation in regional organizations dates back to the early post-independence period when it was a key player in the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963. Since then, Nigeria has continued to be actively involved in various regional initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, and economic development. One of the most notable regional organizations that Nigeria has been involved in is the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Nigeria was one of the founding members of ECOWAS in 1975 and has played a leading role in the organization ever since. ECOWAS has been instrumental in promoting economic cooperation, regional integration, and peace and security in West Africa. Nigeria's involvement in ECOWAS has helped to strengthen the organization and enhance its effectiveness in addressing regional challenges. In addition to ECOWAS, Nigeria has also been actively involved in the African Union (AU), which was established in 2001 to promote political and economic integration among African countries. Nigeria has been a key player in AU initiatives aimed at promoting democracy, good governance, and sustainable development on the continent. Nigeria's leadership and contributions to the AU have helped to advance the organization's goals and objectives. Furthermore, Nigeria has been involved in other regional organizations such as the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Nigeria's participation in these organizations reflects its commitment to regional cooperation and integration across Africa. Overall, Nigeria's role in the formation of regional organizations in Africa has been significant and has helped to promote peace, stability, and development on the continent. By actively participating in regional initiatives, Nigeria has demonstrated its commitment to regional integration and cooperation. Moving forward, Nigeria is likely to continue playing a key role in shaping the future of regional organizations in Africa and contributing to the continent's development agenda.

Project Overview

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of Nigeria in the formation of regional organization (ECOWAS) considering the need for West Africa to have a regional organization with common goals and the formative years of ECOWAS. This research also examine the Nigeria’s interest in ECOWAS and the successes/challenges of the regional organization. Data was obtained from the secondary sources like Journals, textbooks, internet and all other secondary sources. More data were also gathered through interviews. The data obtained was analyzed using thematic format and a descriptive essay and the result revealed that Nigeria played a major role in the formation of ECOWAS because their special interest is in regional and borderless organization uniting the West African countries to improve trade and transportation with an introduction of common currency. Nigeria has played a leading role in funding the organization. However, the organization has not been able to achieve many of the goals in the mission system due to several challenges and the non supportive nature of some member countries. This study concludes that Nigeria should continue playing the big brother role to ensure the success of the regional organization. It however recommends that other west African countries should come together in cooperation to ensure the success of the organization.