ABSTRACT
This study, titled "An Assessment of the External Dimensions of the Nigeria Civil War: 1967 – 1975," explores the roles of external actors during the Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafra War, which lasted from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970, and resulted in approximately three million deaths. It examines the involvement of global powers, regional organizations, and the Biafran diaspora in the conflict. The study highlights how Cold War dynamics influenced the war, focusing on the support provided by the Soviet Union, Eastern Bloc, United Kingdom, and United States, which prolonged the conflict. It contrasts the Nigerian government's successful international diplomacy with Biafra's struggle for recognition and support, contributing to its defeat. The role of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in opposing Biafran secession, based on principles of territorial integrity and non-interference, is critically analyzed. The study also addresses the global humanitarian response to the Biafran famine, driven by international media and humanitarian organizations, and the influence of the Biafran diaspora in shaping international narratives and policies. By providing a detailed historical account, the study underscores the challenges of balancing state sovereignty with humanitarian intervention, the impact of global powers on conflict outcomes, and the role of media and advocacy in mobilizing international responses. It concludes with recommendations for strengthening regional organizations, promoting inclusive diplomacy, supporting coordinated humanitarian efforts, and fostering historical accountability for reconciliation and conflict prevention. Overall, this research offers insights into the complexities of internal conflicts and external interventions, relevant for managing contemporary conflicts in an interconnected world.
