REGIONAL HEGEMONY AND LEADERSHIP SPACE IN AFRICA: ASSESSING NIGERIA'S PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

Аннотация

This study explores the concept of regional hegemony and leadership space in Africa, with a specific focus on Nigeria's prospects and challenges in assuming such a role. As one of the continent's most populous and economically influential nations, Nigeria's potential for regional leadership has long been recognized. However, several internal and external factors have posed significant challenges to its pursuit of regional hegemony. Through a comprehensive assessment of historical and contemporary political, economic, and security dynamics, this research aims to shed light on Nigeria's capacity to exert leadership in Africa. The study highlights the implications of Nigeria's actions on regional stability, economic cooperation, and political integration. By examining the interplay between domestic developments and regional aspirations, this analysis offers valuable insights into the complexities and prospects of Nigeria's role as a regional power in Africa. KEYWORDS Regional hegemony, leadership space, Africa, Nigeria, political dynamics, economic cooperation, security challenges, regional stability, political integration.