Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
5
International Journal Of History And Political Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2222)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
P
AGES
:
05-09
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
713
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
ABSTRACT
This study explores the concept of regional hegemony and leadership space in Africa, with a specific focus on Nigeria's
prospects and challenges in assuming such a role. As one of the continent's most populous and economically
influential nations, Nigeria's potential for regional leadership has long been recognized. However, several internal and
external factors have posed significant challenges to its pursuit of regional hegemony. Through a comprehensive
assessment of historical and contemporary political, economic, and security dynamics, this research aims to shed light
on Nigeria's capacity to exert leadership in Africa. The study highlights the implications of Nigeria's actions on regional
stability, economic cooperation, and political integration. By examining the interplay between domestic
developments and regional aspirations, this analysis offers valuable insights into the complexities and prospects of
Nigeria's role as a regional power in Africa.
KEYWORDS
Regional hegemony, leadership space, Africa, Nigeria, political dynamics, economic cooperation, security challenges,
regional stability, political integration.
INTRODUCTION
The concept of regional hegemony and leadership
space in Africa has been a topic of significant interest
and debate among scholars and policymakers. As the
largest economy and most populous country on the
continent, Nigeria has often been identified as a
potential regional leader. However, the realization of
Nigeria's leadership aspirations faces numerous
prospects and challenges that must be carefully
Research Article
REGIONAL HEGEMONY AND LEADERSHIP SPACE IN AFRICA: ASSESSING
NIGERIA'S PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES
Submission Date:
June 25, 2023,
Accepted Date:
June 30, 2023,
Published Date:
July 05, 2023
Crossref doi:
https://doi.org/10.37547/ijhps/Volume03Issue07-02
Jude Frank Udaw
Department of Political Science, Federal University Wukari, Wukari-Nigeria
Journal
Website:
https://theusajournals.
com/index.php/ijhps
Copyright:
Original
content from this work
may be used under the
terms of the creative
commons
attributes
4.0 licence.
Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
6
International Journal Of History And Political Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2222)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
P
AGES
:
05-09
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
713
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
assessed. This study aims to provide a comprehensive
analysis of Nigeria's prospects and challenges in
assuming regional hegemony and leadership space in
Africa.
In the realm of international relations, the pursuit of
regional hegemony and leadership plays a pivotal role
in shaping global politics. Within the African continent,
the quest for regional leadership holds significant
importance, with various countries vying for influence
and prominence. Nigeria, as the largest economy and
most populous nation in Africa, has long been regarded
as a potential regional leader. Its geographical location,
economic capabilities, and historical involvement in
regional affairs have positioned it as a key player on the
continent.
The concept of regional leadership entails not only
economic and military might but also the ability to
influence the political and diplomatic landscape of the
region. A regional leader is expected to promote
peace, stability, and cooperation among African
nations, while also championing common goals and
addressing shared challenges. Moreover, regional
leadership involves strategic engagement with other
African countries, regional organizations, and
international partners to foster development and
integration within the continent.
This study aims to comprehensively assess Nigeria's
prospects and challenges in attaining regional
hegemony and leadership space in Africa. By delving
into the dynamics of regional power, the research
seeks to shed light on the complex interplay of internal
and external factors that shape Nigeria's potential as a
regional leader. Understanding Nigeria's role as a
prospective leader in Africa requires a thorough
examination of its political stability, economic
capabilities, diplomatic initiatives, and the perception
of other African countries towards its leadership
ambitions.
In this context, this research employs a multi-
disciplinary approach, combining qualitative and
quantitative methods to provide a holistic evaluation
of Nigeria's regional leadership prospects. By analyzing
the nation's historical engagements, current foreign
policy, and diplomatic initiatives, as well as its
contributions
to
regional
peacekeeping
and
development efforts, we can gain insights into its
positioning as a regional power.
Furthermore, an exploration of the challenges Nigeria
faces in its pursuit of regional leadership is equally
crucial. Internal governance issues, economic
disparities, and competition from other aspiring
regional powers are some of the factors that may
hinder Nigeria's path to leadership in Africa. Moreover,
understanding how other African countries perceive
and respond to Nigeria's leadership aspirations is
essential in discerning the level of acceptance and
cooperation the nation can expect from its regional
counterparts.
Ultimately, this study seeks to contribute to the
broader understanding of regional dynamics within
Africa and provide valuable insights into the prospects
and challenges of Nigeria's pursuit of regional
hegemony and leadership space. By offering a
comprehensive analysis, the research aims to inform
policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders about
Nigeria's potential as a regional leader and the steps
required to navigate the complexities of regional
power politics in Africa.
METHOD
This research employs a multi-disciplinary approach,
drawing on a combination of qualitative and
Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
7
International Journal Of History And Political Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2222)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
P
AGES
:
05-09
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
713
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
quantitative methods to assess Nigeria's prospects and
challenges in regional leadership. The study begins
with a comprehensive review of relevant literature on
regional hegemony, leadership, and Nigeria's historical
and contemporary role in African affairs. This literature
review provides a solid theoretical foundation for
understanding the concept of regional leadership and
the factors that contribute to its attainment.
To gain insights into Nigeria's prospects for regional
hegemony, the study examines the country's political,
economic, and security dynamics. This involves
analyzing Nigeria's domestic political landscape, its
economic capabilities and regional integration efforts,
as well as its security challenges and contributions to
regional stability. In-depth interviews and focus group
discussions
with
policymakers,
experts,
and
stakeholders in Nigeria and other African countries are
conducted to gather qualitative data on perceptions of
Nigeria's leadership potential.
Furthermore, quantitative data, such as economic
indicators, trade patterns, and regional cooperation
agreements, are collected and analyzed to provide a
quantitative assessment of Nigeria's regional influence
and economic integration within Africa. Statistical
analysis techniques, such as regression analysis and
comparative assessments, are employed to identify
patterns, trends, and correlations.
The research also considers the perspectives and
reactions of other African countries and regional
organizations towards Nigeria's leadership ambitions.
This involves examining diplomatic relations, regional
alliances, and the responses of neighboring countries
to Nigeria's regional engagements.
By integrating qualitative and quantitative data, this
study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of
Nigeria's prospects and challenges in assuming
regional hegemony and leadership space in Africa. The
findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of
the complexities and dynamics of regional power
dynamics in Africa and inform discussions on Nigeria's
role as a potential regional leader.
RESULTS
The assessment of Nigeria's prospects and challenges
in assuming regional hegemony and leadership space
in Africa reveals a complex picture. On one hand,
Nigeria possesses significant demographic, economic,
and military capabilities that could position it as a
regional leader. Its large population, robust economy,
and strategic location give it the potential to exert
considerable influence. Additionally, Nigeria has
historically played an active role in regional affairs,
particularly through its involvement in peacekeeping
missions and diplomatic engagements.
However, several challenges impede Nigeria's path to
regional leadership. One of the key challenges is
internal governance and political stability. Nigeria has
grappled with issues such as corruption, ethnic and
religious tensions, and weak governance, which
undermine its credibility and hinder its ability to project
leadership externally. Economic challenges, including
high levels of poverty and inequality, also pose
obstacles to Nigeria's regional ambitions.
Furthermore, external factors such as competition
from other regional powers, divergent interests
among African countries, and the complex dynamics of
regional organizations, impact Nigeria's leadership
prospects. Nigeria faces competition from countries
like South Africa and Kenya, which also aspire to
regional leadership roles. Moreover, African countries
often have diverse interests and priorities, making it
challenging to forge consensus and build alliances.
Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
8
International Journal Of History And Political Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2222)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
P
AGES
:
05-09
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
713
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
DISCUSSION
The discussion of Nigeria's prospects and challenges in
regional leadership highlights the importance of
addressing internal governance issues and promoting
political stability. Nigeria must enhance its governance
structures, tackle corruption, and foster inclusivity to
gain the trust and support of other African countries.
Economic reforms aimed at reducing poverty,
promoting inclusive growth, and strengthening
regional economic integration are also crucial.
In addition, Nigeria needs to develop a clear strategic
vision for its regional leadership aspirations. This
involves articulating its interests, identifying areas of
comparative advantage, and aligning its policies with
regional priorities. Building strong diplomatic ties,
engaging in constructive regional diplomacy, and
demonstrating a commitment to regional stability are
essential steps towards garnering support and
cooperation from other African countries.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the assessment of Nigeria's prospects
and challenges in assuming regional hegemony and
leadership space in Africa underscores the complex
nature of regional power dynamics. While Nigeria
possesses significant potential for regional leadership,
internal governance issues, economic challenges, and
external factors pose significant hurdles.
To overcome these challenges and enhance its
prospects for regional leadership, Nigeria must
prioritize domestic reforms, strengthen governance
structures, and address economic disparities. It should
also engage in strategic diplomatic initiatives, build
alliances, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to
regional stability and cooperation.
By addressing these factors, Nigeria can position itself
as a key regional leader, contributing to the
development and integration of Africa as a whole.
However, achieving regional hegemony requires a
long-term commitment, sustained efforts, and the
ability to navigate complex regional dynamics.
REFERENCES
1.
Adebayo, A. (2018). Nigeria's Aspirations for
Regional Leadership in Africa: Prospects and
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2.
Babawale, T. (2016). Nigeria's Leadership Role in
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Ezeibe, C. (2019). Nigeria and Regional Leadership
in Africa: An Analysis of Opportunities and
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Umukoro, C., & Nwabufo, S. (2019). Nigeria's
Leadership Role in Africa: Challenges and
Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
9
International Journal Of History And Political Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2222)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
P
AGES
:
05-09
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
713
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
Prospects. Journal of African Political Economy and
Development, 4(2), 80-95.
10.
Yakubu, A., & Haruna, Y. (2020). Nigeria's
Leadership Role in Africa: Challenges and
Prospects. Nigerian Journal of Politics and Public
Policy, 3(1), 61-78.
