CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTING ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY INITIATIVES IN NIGERIA'S FOREIGN POLICY

Nigeria's engagement in economic diplomacy has often lacked effective translation into tangible development outcomes. Despite initiatives, challenges persist in achieving measurable impacts on trade and investment. The disconnect underscores ongoing barriers hindering the realization of strategic foreign policy goals in economic spheres. To this end, this study challenges in implementing economic diplomacy initiatives in Nigeria’s foreign policy. The paper was anchored on the institutional theory as its tool of analysis. Data for the study were based on primary and secondary method. The study identified several challenges impeding the effective implementation of economic diplomacy initiatives in Nigeria's foreign policy. These include bureaucratic inefficiencies, insufficient coordination among relevant ministries and agencies, inconsistent policy frameworks, and limited capacity in negotiation skills and strategy. Secondly, the study highlights that despite Nigeria's efforts in economic diplomacy, there remains a significant gap between intended outcomes and actual results. Challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, inconsistent policy frameworks, and limited coordination among government agencies have hindered the effectiveness of these initiatives. The study recommends among others that addressing the challenges facing the implementation of economic diplomacy in Nigeria's foreign policy, Nigeria could implement streamlined bureaucratic procedures, ensuring quicker decision-making and responsiveness. Establishing clear, stable policy frameworks supported by long-term strategic planning would enhance predictability and investor confidence. Adequate resource allocation should prioritize funding and staffing for economic diplomacy initiatives, enabling sustained efforts in promoting Nigerian trade interests globally.