Nigeria's active role in the liberation of some countries in Southern Africa earned her the status of a frontline state.
It made Nigeria to because very ifluential in the world community as outside countries began to consult Nigeria on issues concerning Africa.
It was also in recognition of Nigeria's contributions to liberation Movements that made ANC deputy President Dr.Nelson Mandela to make Nigeria his first port of call outside the front line states immediately after his release from prison in 1990.