The Association of Foreign Relations Professionals of Nigeria (AFRPN) has stressed the need for effective foreign policy to bolster sound democratic governance, economic stability and informed strategic engagement.

The president of AFRPN, Gani Lawal, disclosed this at the news briefing and stakeholder engagement organised by the association in Abuja.

The briefing focused on AFRPN’s preparedness to host its 8th annual conference against backdrop of its commitment to shaping Nigeria’s foreign policy discourse through strategic dialogue, intellectual engagement, and global best practices.

The conference themed: “The Challenge of Democratic Governance in Africa: Mega Trends and Leveraging Opportunities for Consolidation” is scheduled for February 5, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.

According to him, AFRPN has consistently influenced policy thinking through lectures, workshops, publications, and mentorship programmes for young diplomats, while providing a platform for critical reflection on contemporary global and African issues.

“The 2026 lecture theme was deliberately selected, in line with previous editions, to allow participants benefit from the wealth of experience of international relations practitioners, who have played active roles in democratic governance across Africa.

“Our association is committed to democratic principles in Africa, promotion of regional integration, and peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and cooperation.

“Our effective foreign policy remains closely linked to sound democratic governance, economic stability, and informed strategic engagement,” he said.

He reiterated that the association would continue to make meaningful contributions through policy dialogue, intellectual engagement, mentorship, and research-based interventions, leveraging collective experience of its members in shaping strategic foreign policy thinking.

He commended the conference’s theme, which aligned with the association’s mandate to promote informed discourse on Nigeria’s foreign policy and Africa’s international relations.

“This is particularly relevant in light of democratic setbacks, governance challenges, and security pressures confronting several African countries, especially within the Sahel region.”

He expressed confidence that the President Bola Tinubu’s 4-D foreign policy doctrine would reinforce Nigeria’s long-standing “brother’s keeper” philosophy and further consolidate the country’s leadership role in Africa.

Mr Lawal suggested that Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa must be anchored on strengthened military-industrial capacity, sustained economic growth, and continued support for neighbouring and emerging democracies.

Also that Nigeria must remain committed to the African Union’s agenda focused on regional integration, cooperation, dialogue-based conflict resolution, and the silencing of guns across the continent.

He further revealed that Bankole Adeoye, African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, would be the guest lecturer, while Ibrahim Gambari, former minister of foreign affairs and patron of AFRPN, would serve as Chairman of the occasion.

Others include, the Vice-President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, as special guest of honour, Nigeria’s minister of foreign affairs, Yusuf Tuggar and the minister of state for foreign affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as hosts.

Also, heads of strategic security agencies, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Ddrector-general of the National Intelligence Agency, and the chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission.

Others are comptrollers-general of customs and immigration, commandants of defence institutions, heads of diplomatic missions, and chief executives of ministries, departments, and agencies. 

(NAN)