PRESSURE GROUPS AND THE CONDUCT OF NIGERIAN FOREIGN POLICY

ABSTRACT

Throughout this study, we have embarked on a comprehensive exploration of the interrelation between pressure groups and Nigerian foreign policy. From the study, it has been revealed that pressure groups in Nigeria are diverse in nature, representing a wide array of interests, from economic and professional groups to cause-based and identity-based organizations. And these groups employ various strategies, including lobbying, advocacy campaigns, and direct engagement with policymakers, to influence policy decisions. The functions that pressure groups perform encompass representation, policy advocacy, balancing power, raising public awareness, and promoting scrutiny and accountability. In this study, we discussed pressure groups in Nigeria through a brief overview of their types (professional Associations, social-interest groups, Economic Interest groups, and single interest groups) as well as the strategies pressure groups employ in the attainment of their interests. Pressure groups are organized entities that seek to exert influence on government decisions without directly seeking to hold official government power. They operate from outside the government in other words they aren’t controlled or owned by the government. They are their own entities who represent diverse aims and interests.