Democracy by Design? Unpacking EU and US Strategies and Tools in Nigeria’s Democratic Landscape
Democracy by Design? Unpacking EU and US Strategies and Tools in Nigeria’s Democratic Landscape

Summary/Abstract: This paper offers a comparative analysis of the European Union’s and the United States’ democracy promotion strategies in Nigeria, focusing on the period before the Second Trump administration (1999–2024). Drawing on qualitative desk research, it examines how both actors balance normative democratic ideals with pragmatic geostrategic interests, such as security, migration, and economic cooperation. While both the EU and US employ similar tools – election observation, civil society engagement, and political dialogue – their funding instruments, policy frameworks, and strategic motivations differ significantly. The EU often adopts a multilateral, development-linked approach, while the US tends toward bilateral, security-driven engagement. These differences reflect more profound divergences in how democracy is conceptualised and promoted. Despite their shared objectives, the impact of their efforts is shaped by Nigeria’s internal political dynamics, limited financial commitments, and the prioritisation of strategic stability over normative accountability. This study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of external democracy promotion in Africa’s largest democracy.

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