(a) Foreign policy is the principles, guidelines and strategy adopted by a country in conducting her relationship with other states while pursuing her national interest.
(b)i. Africa centred: Africa is regarded as the centre-piece of Nigerian foreign policy
ii. Historical/Colonial background and experience
iii. Types of government e.g. military or democratic government
iv. Population: large size and the quality of human resources of Nigeria affect her foreign policy
v Ideological disposition of the leaders: Nigeria relates more with those countries that share similar ideologies
vi. The economic resources available to Nigeria e.g mineral resources and agricultural products
vii. Commitment to international laws, treaties and conventions
viii. Public opinion on issues can bring changes in government's foreign policy
ix. The industrial strength of Nigeria influences her choice of trading partners
x. Membership and commitment to international organisations
xi. The military strength of Nigeria e.g. the size and quality of the army influence her foreign policy
xii. The activities of interest/pressure groups influence Nigeria's foreign policy
xiii. Geographical location influences Nigeria's foreign policy
xiv. The desire for foreign investments and overseas market
xv. The personality of the leaders
xvi. National interest of Nigeria
xvii. Religious and ethnic factors