Sinclair, Michael R. The role of Nigeria in the international political system. This study proposes a framework for analysis in which the correlation between the principal variables, events and procedures, which in their combined interaction serve to determine a state's international role, is illustrated in causal sequence. This model then provides the theoretical framework for the analysis of the role of Nigeria in international politics. Three criteria are identified as fundamental in determining a state's external behaviour: first, the spectrum of national capability resources, which constitute the physical and non-physical characteristics of the state; secondly, the notion of ego-role perception, which is the product of the perception of state leadership of the threats and opportunities arising from the state's interaction with the international environment in which the objectives of policy must be realized; and thirdly, the notion of alter-perception, which arises from the premise that the first two criteria are essentially relative to the perception of the major world powers. Nigerian behaviour in the international system is the product of the interaction between the capability means of population size, economic leverage and military capability. These capability means are mobilized in pursuit of certain ego-role objectives (namely the aspiration to be both an honest-broker and a continental leader) and the maintenance of national unity and stability. These ego-role objectives are realized in the international system primarily by diplomatic means, supported by threats of economic retribution or military action. The pattern of this national strategy for interaction has, over time, established a positive perception of the significance of Nigeria for the members of the global system and the African sub-system. Nigeria has created a role which combines continental leadership with sub-systemic predominance. IR content 2015-11-19
    https://figshare.le.ac.uk/articles/thesis/The_role_of_Nigeria_in_the_international_political_system_/10186694