Enhancing democracy in Nigeria: Exploring the strategies of US democracy promotion and the new approach of democratic socialization

Abstract

Since independence, many African countries have grappled with autocratic systems, predominantly characterized by military and civilian autocratic governance, which has impeded the advancement of democratic principles. Structural challenges, corruption, and ethnic politics rooted in colonialism have plagued the continent. During the 1990s, Southern Africa made notable progress toward democratic governance, while West Africa remained entrenched in a post-colonial order dominated by military and pseudo-democratic regimes. The United States (US), a contentious yet pivotal partner in Africa’s development, has increasingly emphasized the support of democratic governance in West African countries such as Nigeria as a strategic element of its foreign policy framework. This paper employs qualitative research methodology, utilizing secondary data and foreign policy documents concerning events, funding, and activities since the early twenty-first century to examine US efforts to promote democracy in Nigeria. While findings indicate that the US has implemented various strategies, including the Integrated Country Strategy (ICS), support for civil society organizations, the US-Nigeria Binational Commission, assistance to the election management body, and diplomatic visits, the study highlights the importance of aligning these strategies with political literacy education to cultivate an inclusive and democratic society in Nigeria. This novel approach to democratic socialization through political education goes beyond the rhetorical dispositions of foreign policy, bilateral agreements, or election observation strategies, aiming to cultivate an inclusive and democratic society in Nigeria.