Analysis of Citizen Diplomacy: A Case Study of Nigeria-South Africa Bilateral Relation in the Fourth Republic (2007 - 2015)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the concept of citizens' diplomacy and its influence on Nigeria-South African relations, with a specific focus on the period from 2007 to 2015. This research utilizes the liberal theory, which seeks to mitigate conflicts and hostilities between nations. The Nigeria-South Africa case holds significant importance due to the xenophobic attacks that transpired during this timeframe, resulting in tragic fatalities among Nigerian citizens in South Africa. By analyzing this issue through the liberal theory framework, our objective is to gain deeper insights into the underlying dynamics and identify potential resolutions to prevent similar conflicts in the future. The study used a combination of primary and secondary data sources. Questionnaires were distributed to approximately 150 respondents selected from a variety of organizations including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, South-African Embassy in Nigeria, Nigerian Embassy in South-Africa, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ministry of Trade and Investment, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, as well as lecturers from departments such as Political Science and International Relations History, Economic Department among others. Alongside the questionnaires, secondary data was collected from electronic media sources like Aljazeera, Cable News Network, journals, and textbooks. The utilization of these diverse data sources enabled a comprehensive analysis of the research topic. The analysis of the collected questionnaire data revealed that the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa can be characterized as competitive, displaying elements of hegemony. This dynamic is often described as a mixture of good and evil, with periodic oscillations between love and hate. The study also identified several factors contributing to xenophobic attacks on Nigerian citizens in South Africa. These include foreign criminals' fear of unemployment, concerns over immigration work ethics, local business competition, the dissemination of fake news by the South African media, and the actions (or lack thereof) of South African politicians and elites. To address this issue, it is recommended that Nigeria urgently reviews and re-packages its foreign policy in light of the realities of the globalized world order. This would involve making the policy more efficient, responsible, dynamic, and proactive, with a focus on citizen diplomacy. Additionally, the Nigerian government should prioritize addressing internal challenges such as terrorism, kidnapping, corruption, nepotism, and armed banditry. By tackling these issues effectively, Nigeria can create an environment that attracts foreign investors and encourages Nigerian citizens to stay within the country rather than seeking opportunities abroad.