Wake-Up Call: Foreign Minister Tuggar Urges Complete Rethink OF Nigeria’s Global Strategy”

Speaking on Thursday during the maiden edition of the Agora Policy Forum themed “Nigeria’s Foreign Policy at a Time of Global Uncertainty,” Ambassador Tuggar noted that while Nigeria’s traditional foreign policy — centered around African solidarity, non-alignment, economic diplomacy, and multilateral cooperation — remains foundational, it must now be recalibrated to align with today’s shifting international landscape.

Tuggar stressed the importance of Nigeria adopting a more proactive and strategic approach in its global interactions.

“We are meeting at a time when the global order is undergoing profound changes,” he said. “Geopolitical rivalries, economic reshuffling, trade disputes, security threats, climate crises, and rapid technological change are redefining the rules of engagement. These developments require nations to rethink their strategies. Even long-standing beliefs about democracy and markets are under scrutiny from both state and non-state players.”

Highlighting Nigeria’s influential position as Africa’s most populous nation and a significant diplomatic and economic player, the minister said the country must uphold its core values — democratic governance, pluralism, and resilience — while navigating this complex global terrain.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s foreign policy must be backed by a robust intellectual and strategic framework. According to him, platforms like the Agora Policy Forum offer critical spaces where policymakers, academics, and industry leaders can converge to guide the nation’s diplomatic direction.

“As we confront global unpredictability, Nigeria must be agile, forward-thinking, and innovative in its foreign policy,” Tuggar asserted. “Our engagement with the world should be informed by solid data, a long-term vision, and a steadfast commitment to both national and African development.”

He concluded that foreign policy should not merely be reactive but should actively shape Nigeria’s place in the global order — ensuring economic strength, national security, and a powerful voice in international affairs.