Ado Ekiti, Nigeria – Nigeria’s foreign policy needs a complete overhaul in 2024, according to Professor Damilola Olawuyi (SAN), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic, Research, and International Partnerships) at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, and Global Vice Chair of the International Law Association. In an interview with Onozure Dania of Punch, Olawuyi outlined critical shortcomings in the current approach and proposed concrete steps for improvement.
While acknowledging the administration’s emphasis on international engagement, Olawuyi criticized “rushed decisions” like the hasty recall of ambassadors, which led to “preventable embarrassment” for the country. He further highlighted the lack of clear leadership in key diplomatic missions, emphasizing the need for a “well-defined framework” to ensure continuity and effectiveness in achieving foreign policy goals.
Moving beyond impulsive actions, Olawuyi called for a “strategic” and “investment-oriented” foreign policy. He urged the government to develop a clear framework that attracts international financing for vital infrastructure projects like roads, education, and healthcare. “Nigeria has a huge financing gap,” Olawuyi explained, “and we need to secure the best deals that deliver win-win outcomes for both investment and development.”
Recognizing the challenges of the declining oil and gas market, Olawuyi championed a “just and inclusive energy transition” that leaves no one behind. He emphasized the importance of securing international funding, technology, and development assistance to enable Nigeria to adopt “lower-carbon economic models” and create “green jobs” in waste management, renewable energy, and other sectors. This, he argued, would address poverty, combat climate change, and provide modern energy sources for the populace.
Expressing concern about lopsided international agreements, Olawuyi pointed to the P&ID contract scam as a stark reminder of the need for skilled negotiators. He stressed the importance of sending “the best minds” who understand the intricacies of international law to the negotiation table to secure the best deals for Nigeria.
As head of the International Law Association (ILA) Nigeria, Olawuyi described the organization’s efforts to bridge knowledge gaps in international law, commercial arbitration, and environmental law. He cited upcoming conferences on “Public-Private Partnerships for Infrastructure Development Financing” and “Arbitration and Putting Our House in Order” as examples of their commitment to supporting Nigeria’s foreign policy goals.
Drawing on his extensive global experience, Olawuyi emphasized the importance of understanding different legal cultures and traditions for effective international engagement. He expressed his desire to leverage his expertise to attract sustainable investments for Nigeria and inspire the next generation.
“These are urgent foreign policy issues of our time which Nigeria cannot afford to take the back seat on,” Olawuyi concluded, urging Nigerians to take a proactive role in shaping the country’s foreign policy for a brighter future.