VOLUME  1 | ISSUE 6 | MARCH 2025

Foreign Relations Law and Nigeria’s Engagement with International Organizations

OLUWABUKUNMI ONAOLAPO 

Understanding Foreign Relations Law in Nigeria

Foreign Relations Law serves as the legal framework that governs a country's interactions with other nations and international organizations in areas such as diplomacy, trade, security, and human rights. In Nigeria, this legal structure is primarily rooted in the 1999 Constitution (as amended), along with a combination of treaties, customary international law, and domestic legislation. These laws dictate how Nigeria engages with global entities, ensuring that international agreements align with national interests while maintaining sovereignty.

The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria confers significant foreign relations powers on the Executive Branch, particularly the President, who acts as the chief diplomat and representative of the country in global affairs. The President has the authority to negotiate and enter into treaties on behalf of Nigeria, as well as engage in diplomatic negotiations with other states and international organizations. However, the National Assembly plays a critical role in treaty ratification, ensuring that international agreements align with national interests and legal standards. According to Section 12 of the Constitution, a treaty signed by Nigeria does not automatically become enforceable within the country unless it is domesticated into national law by the National Assembly. This provision is crucial in maintaining Nigeria’s sovereignty while ensuring compliance with international commitments.

Nigeria is a signatory to numerous international treaties, conventions, and agreements that regulate its interactions with global institutions such as the United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the World Trade Organization (WTO). These legal frameworks shape Nigeria’s participation in global trade, human rights advocacy, security cooperation, and diplomatic engagements. For instance, treaties on trade and economic relations with organizations such as the WTO establish rules that govern Nigeria’s participation in the global market. Similarly, agreements under the AU and ECOWAS provide a legal basis for Nigeria’s involvement in regional economic integration and peacekeeping missions.

The legal framework governing Nigeria’s foreign relations is also influenced by customary international law, which consists of practices and norms widely accepted by the international community as legally binding. Nigeria’s courts have occasionally recognized and applied customary international law in legal proceedings, particularly in cases related to human rights and diplomatic immunity. However, the extent to which such laws are enforced domestically depends largely on their compatibility with national legislation and constitutional provisions.

Nigeria’s Engagement with International Organizations

Nigeria actively engages with international organizations to enhance its diplomatic influence, promote economic development, and strengthen regional and global security. The country’s strategic position as Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy makes it a key player in global affairs. Over the years, Nigeria has demonstrated strong commitment to multilateralism by participating in international organizations and upholding various international agreements and treaties.

a. Nigeria and the United Nations (UN)

As a member of the United Nations (UN) since its independence in 1960, Nigeria has played an active role in promoting global peace, security, and human rights. The country adheres to several UN conventions and protocols related to human rights, environmental protection, and security cooperation. Nigeria’s contributions to UN peacekeeping missions are particularly notable, as the country has provided military personnel for peacekeeping operations in conflict zones such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Nigeria’s participation in the UN is governed by domestic laws that facilitate the implementation of international agreements. For example, human rights laws in Nigeria have been influenced by treaties such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). However, challenges such as weak enforcement mechanisms and domestic legal conflicts sometimes hinder full compliance with UN treaties and conventions.

b. Nigeria and the African Union (AU)

Nigeria is a founding member of the African Union (AU) and remains a key player in the organization’s efforts to promote economic development, security, and regional integration. The country has supported AU initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to create a single market for goods and services across the continent. Nigeria’s engagement with the AU is guided by its foreign relations law, which facilitates the enforcement of AU treaties and protocols at the national level.

Nigeria has also contributed significantly to AU peacekeeping missions, particularly in West Africa. The country has played a leading role in efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency, and political instability in the region, particularly through its involvement in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) against Boko Haram. Despite these contributions, Nigeria faces challenges in aligning AU policies with domestic priorities, particularly in areas such as governance and economic policy.

c. Nigeria and ECOWAS

As a founding member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Nigeria has been instrumental in advancing regional economic integration and security cooperation. The country hosts the ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja and has played a leading role in shaping the organization’s policies and initiatives. Nigeria’s foreign relations law enables it to enforce ECOWAS trade agreements and security protocols, including the ECOWAS Free Trade Area and the rulings of the ECOWAS Court of Justice.

ECOWAS has been crucial in promoting trade and economic cooperation among West African states, and Nigeria has benefited from its free movement of goods and services framework. However, challenges such as border closures, economic disparities, and political instability in neighboring countries sometimes strain Nigeria’s engagement with ECOWAS. To fully maximize the benefits of regional integration, Nigeria must strengthen its legal framework for implementing ECOWAS agreements and ensure compliance with regional trade and security protocols.

d. Nigeria and Global Economic Organizations

Nigeria is also a member of international economic organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). These organizations influence Nigeria’s trade policies, financial regulations, and economic development strategies. The country’s participation in the WTO, for instance, is governed by domestic trade laws that regulate import and export policies, tariffs, and trade agreements with other countries.

Similarly, Nigeria engages with the IMF and the World Bank to secure financial assistance and implement economic reforms aimed at promoting growth and stability. However, Nigeria has often faced challenges in balancing IMF-recommended policies with its domestic economic priorities. Issues such as foreign debt, economic diversification, and exchange rate stability remain key considerations in Nigeria’s engagement with these global economic institutions.

Legal Challenges and Future Considerations

Despite Nigeria’s active participation in international organizations, its foreign relations law faces several challenges that hinder effective implementation and compliance with global commitments. One of the main challenges is the slow domestication of international treaties, which often delays the enforcement of important agreements. The requirement under Section 12 of the Constitution that all treaties be ratified by the National Assembly before becoming enforceable domestically has led to bureaucratic delays and legal uncertainties.

Another challenge is the enforcement of international court decisions. Nigeria’s commitment to international legal bodies such as the ECOWAS Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court (ICC) has sometimes been met with resistance due to concerns about sovereignty and selective enforcement. Some policymakers argue that international legal rulings should not override national laws and judicial processes.

Additionally, political instability, corruption, and weak institutional frameworks often undermine Nigeria’s ability to fulfill its international obligations. The country must take proactive steps to modernize its foreign relations law, streamline its treaty ratification process, and enhance compliance with international agreements. Strengthening diplomatic institutions, investing in legal reforms, and fostering greater public awareness of international law will help Nigeria maximize the benefits of its global engagements.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s Foreign Relations Law plays a crucial role in shaping its interactions with the international community. While the country has made significant strides in engaging with global organizations, addressing legal and institutional challenges will be essential for enhancing its diplomatic effectiveness, economic growth, and global reputation. By adopting a more proactive legal approach, Nigeria can strengthen its foreign relations framework and position itself as a key player in global governance and international cooperation.

A Narrative-Phenomenological Inquiry into a School Janitor’s Ethical Leadership Practices Despite the Stigma of Invisibility

Jesus S. Huelva III

Aroroy Municipal College

Aroroy, Masbate, Philippines

jesushuelvaiii@gmail.com

Abstract

This inquiry focused on ethical leadership practices of a school janitor in a local college in Masbate. Narrative inquiry and phenomenology (Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis [IPA]) were partially used, through semi-structured interview, to: inquire about the school janitor’s understanding of ethical or good behavior and why the school janitor is regarded as “the best” in his/her field of work; try understand the key informant’s most valuable practices and values that can be shared; and attempted to dispel the stigma of invisibility based on the unfounded view towards utility/janitorial work as “dirty.” This study was a way of appreciating the diligence, hard-work, and leadership practices of the key informant. As a leader, he takes initiative and he respects his co-workers. Initiative and respect are products of our moral autonomy and agency. His rational obedience, punctuality, and value for competence can also be attributed to aspiration for ethical leadership. Ethical leadership requires these factors for effective and efficient implementation. The key informant, although wishing for better job status and higher compensation, also exhibits contentment with what he currently has. Effective janitorial job brings forth a healthy and conducive work or study environment. Let us recognize and appreciate the value of our utility personnel.

Keywords: ethical leadership, leadership practices, school janitor, stigma of invisibility

Introduction

So much has been said about educational leaders in higher positions, but very little has been spoken or written about leaders in the lower levels, for example, a school janitor. This could be so because leadership is often associated with titles, ranks, authority, or salary grades. Inquiries into the idea of (educational) leadership usually run towards a concept of a person with power to influence others to achieve goals. This conception indicates attributes that describe and identify a leader in the third-person but does not present the meaning of being a leader in the first person (Souba, 2014). What does it really mean to be an educational leader? Is it possible to find meaning to the concept of educational leadership as it is experienced or practiced by direct reports, that is, in the absence of titles, ranks, authority, or salary grades? Specifically, how does a school janitor practice leadership? 

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) enumerates the daily routines of utility personnel or janitors including: cleaning floors, heavy traffic areas, parking areas, and comfort rooms; dusting and cleaning doors, windows, and furniture; disposing waste and trash; sweeping ceiling cobwebs and removing wall finger marks; watering plants and washing utensils; checking plumbing fixtures and electric appliances; and other related services. In addition, an online article (cfaa.com, 2015) lists down the competencies/skills (e.g. organizing skills, high energy level, and persistence) and physical demands (e.g. ability to perform repetitive tasks, manual dexterity, and visual perception abilities) that janitorial service requires. In relation, janitorial service is considered as labor intensive with high work load and rate and high occupational risk of workplace injuries (Seixas et al., 2013).

In general, the janitor’s job is really physically demanding, and there is a common view that janitorial/utility services are “dirty works.” A “dirty worker” can be defined as someone whose work requires physical contact with filthy and soiled matters, resulting to them being viewed as physically, socially, or morally tainted by the society (Hughes, 1958; Wen, 2010). Literally, one has to get oftentimes dirty to accomplish the work of a utility personnel. And the metaphorical prejudice regarding the “dirty” nature of the work of a janitor/utility brings about stigma and discrimination. Janitors experience “invisibility” (or the feeling of being ignored, unrecognized, and unappreciated) at work because of the “dirty” job they do (Rabelo & Mahalingam, 2019). Unrecognizing janitors’ efforts and accomplishments coupled with social exclusion injures their dignity (Mahalingam et al., 2019). The stigma of invisibility can also be seen out of communicative isolation, thrown-upon shame, or abusive comments from clients such as faculty and students (Alvarez, 2022). This intersubjective phenomenon can also create and sustain boundaries between the worker’s dignity and client’s respect (Rabelo et al., 2019). 

Going back to the question above, despite the stigma of invisibility, can a school janitor practice leadership? In particular, while doing the “dirty job”, how can a school janitor become an ethical leader? A study by Azam (2017) finds that lower level management in maintenance industry which practices autocratic leadership style results to negative job satisfaction and happiness. In contrast, Moschgat (2001) enumerates leadership lessons taken from a janitor, including: being cautious of labels, respecting everyone, being humble but pursuing excellence, and thinking that life does not always give what one thinks one deserves. In relation, the main assumption of the present study is that school janitors can practice ethical leadership, especially, despite the label of “dirty worker” thus rendering them invisible. Hence, the main purpose of this narrative-phenomenological research is to dispel the unfounded view on the “lowly” stature of “cleaning occupation” by describing the leadership values and work ethics of a utility personnel.

This research paper tried to capture the educational leadership practices of a “leader” utility personnel working at a local college. In particular, the study: 

1. asked about the school janitor’s life story, years in service, and work satisfaction; 

2. inquired about the school janitor’s understanding of ethical or good behavior and why the school janitor is regarded as “the best” in his/her field of work; 

3. tried to understand the school janitor’s most valuable practices and values that can be shared; and

4. attempted to dispel invisibility based on the unfounded view towards utility/janitorial work as “dirty.”

Methodology

An inductive research approach was used in this qualitative research by focusing on minor work-related details up to the general perspective of the key informant regarding ethical leadership. Biographical details were also given attention to before delving into the more serious topics on life lessons and values formations.

In relation, a partial use of narrative inquiry and of phenomenology was utilized in this research. Narrative inquiry is appropriate in chronologically presenting the participant’s experiences (Franzosi, 2010; Sagayno, 2018). This was utilized in the part where the key informant narrated, for example, his previous jobs before his current occupation. Also, phenomenology was also used in collecting and analyzing the lived experiences of the participant in relation to his job as utility personnel, his status as leader, his views and values concerning ethical leadership, and his janitorial experience as “dirty” and/or “invisible.”

This study utilized a semi-structured interview guide to conduct one-on-one interview in Minasbate. The schedule of the interview was pre-arranged and conducted after work or at the participant’s vacant time. Other janitors and co-workers working with the participant was also interviewed for verification purposes. The transcripts of the interview were used directly in the translation, coding process, and data analysis leading to themes development.

Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) is an important technique in giving attention to the views of marginalized people (Griffin & May, 2012; Rabelo et al., 2019). The occupation of janitors is often taken for granted, and this research paper is one way to give them a “voice” particularly in relation to work values and ethical leadership. To achieve this, the researcher used IPA to come up with and understand common themes. Minor editions to the verbatim responses were made for clarity purposes and the coding was done only by the researcher.

Results & Discussion

Kuya M’s understanding of ethical or good behavior is primarily based on Filipino culture of being respectful or polite (using the terms “po” and “opo”) in addressing other people. Being ethical for him means “treating other people in a good way…and teaching [them] what is good.” He is concerned with teaching values through example. As regards his being ethical utility personnel, he said that he should “always be aware of cleanliness, so others may see [his] effort” and “all [janitorial] work shall be done” dutifully. Concerning his being a leader, he opined that he does “whatever chores is at hand…if [he] can do it [him]self [he] show[s] initiative.” Initiative and attention to details seem to be his basis for ethical leadership.

Although Kuya M had been a construction laborer and baker, he is happy with his present work by saying, “being utility [personnel] is what [he] liked the most because it is not so tiresome and is able to financially support my family.” Yet the best time that he became a “leader” was when he was a baker: “…[he] was able to teach [new bakers]” of the baking procedures and techniques. In fact, he emphasized his being a “maestro” (i.e. teacher) in the bakery. As utility personnel for 6 years, he had accomplished “many tasks…for example, constructing stairway [from administration building to the classroom buildings], grass cutting, repairing doorknobs…cleaning toilets, fetching water [during sunny season], and assembling [plastic] classroom chairs.” He is generally satisfied with his work “despite [his] position and lower salary. [It is his] main source of income; it is a big help in the family financially.” He wants to convey the virtue of contentedness (although for sure he wishes for a better job status for his family).

Concerning his view on the “dirtiness” of his work, he maintained that actually it is a reputable job because he, for example, cleans the dirty areas in a building. That is, he is not ashamed of being “dirty” because of the practicality and convenience this brings forth to the institution he is serving. He said that other people perceive his work as “dirty” only “because he clean[s] the toilets” and do other janitorial or maintenance chores. Rabelo & Mahalingam (2019) have found out that perceiving the janitor’s work as dirty can result to a feeling of “invisibility” by the janitors. Somehow, Kuya M did not say about his feeling of “being ignored, unrecognized, and unappreciated.” The faculty and staff are somehow appreciative of his efforts especially in terms of work ethics. Maybe it is simply a matter of proper understanding of other people’s jobs that prevents them from really perceiving “utility/janitors” as reputable workers who has the capacity to think about other peoples’ comfort by providing maintenance or janitorial services.

According to Kuya M, he is regarded as the best in his field of work because “[he] treat[s] [his co-workers] well” and “return[s] the favor” when necessary. He also emphasized his diligence and obedience to authority. Apparently, Kuya M is conscious of the way he treats other people, and he values diligence and obedience as pertinent to his job as utility personnel. Respect begets respect, and leadership starts with service.

As regards his most valuable practices and values which others could emulate, he seemed to be telling that for those who would follow his footsteps, it is necessary to be competent in janitorial chores (i.e. operating the power generator, fetching water, or [all-around] cleaning). Competence is a value he wants to share. In addition, he said that one must observe punctuality and that one must accomplish it without second thought. He added that one has to be obedient, but make sure not to follow bad/inappropriate command/request. He also practices the value of treating one’s co-worker fairly as if they were one’s siblings. Punctuality, rational obedience, and brotherhood apparently are his best practices.

On the last part of the interview, he was informed on the private nature of the questions and the answers he would give. His admission of “being hooked to drugs…and smoking” which “destroyed [his] health” was a revelation. Although he was sometimes publicly talking about getting tuberculosis (and getting well after months of daily dose of injection) and about quitting cigarette smoking, he was wary about admitting his drug-use experience. He was also teary-eyed when asked about his childhood and pupil days. He “regret[ted] being unable to finish [his] elementary schooling. He generally blames his parents gambling addiction for his present circumstance. Although he knows basic literacy and numeracy, he wishes for more education. He said that if his life had been better, he could have been a school teacher.

Conclusion

The job of a janitor/utility personnel is a decent work. Those who see it as “dirty” or unworthy have been either raised without knowledge and skills in household chores or have grown to consider themselves privileged and superior in status. If only one could really “feel” the hardships of utility personnel: their capacity to endure unclean and disorderly spaces or parts of a building, foul smell, and hard labor. They are tasked to clean and organize, to wash, sanitize and remove odor, to collect and dispose trash, or to provide ground maintenance. These are the things that they do, and the outcomes bring forth a healthy and conducive work or study environment. Let us recognize and appreciate the value of our utility personnel.

Somehow, this is a way of appreciating the diligence, hard-work, and leadership practices of Kuya M. As a leader, he takes initiative and respects his co-workers. Initiative and respect are products of our moral autonomy and agency. His rational obedience, punctuality, and value for competence can also be attributed to aspiration for ethical leadership. Ethical leadership requires these factors for effective and efficient implementation.

Kuya M, although wishing for better job status and higher compensation, is contented with what he currently has. Many of us are egoistically pursuing greater professional advancement and better means of living, but few of us are contented. The danger of Icarus-complex can lead only to frustrations and unhappiness. 

References:

Alvarez, W. (2022). Everyday dirty work: Invisibility, communication, and immigrant labor. Columbus, OH: The Ohio State University Press. PDF

Azam, H.N.M.F. (2017). Leadership styles in the maintenance industry of UAE: A focus group analysis. European Scientific Journal March 2017 edition Vol.13, No.7 ISSN: 1857 – 7881 (Print) e – ISSN 1857- 7431. http://dx.doi.org/10.19044/esj.2017.v13n7p53

cfaa.com. (2015). Online article wp-content. Job title: Janitor.

DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) Philippines.

Mahalingam, R., Jagannathan, S., & Selvaraj, P. (2019). Decasticization, dignity, and ‘dirty work’ at the intersections of caste, memory, and disaster. Business Ethics Quarterly 29, no. 2 (2019): 213-239. PDF

Moschgat, J.E. (2001). Lessons in leadership:  From a janitor. Wharton Leadership Digest. PDF

Rabelo, V.C. & Mahalingam, R. (2019). “They really don't want to see us”: How cleaners experience invisible ‘dirty’ work. Journal of Vocational Behavior. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvb.2018.10.010

Sagayno, R.C. (2018). Give Hope and Transform Lives:  A Narrative Inquiry of a Janitor- Turned-Teacher. International Forum Vol. 21, No. 2 December 2018 pp. 77-92. Pdf

Seixas, N.S., Domínguez, C., Stover, B., & Simcox, N. (2013). Janitors workload and health and safety study. Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences in cooperation with Service Employee International Union and CASA Latina. PDF

Souba, W. W. (2014). The phenomenology of leadership. Open Journal of Leadership, 3, 77-105. http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/ojl.2014.34008

Wen, S. (2010). The role of social comparison in dirty workers' stigma management. Master’s Thesis. The Chinese University of Hong Kong. PDF

Zero: A Paradox of Nothingness

Rozsi P. Tobias

Zero is viewed as a stand-in for nothingness, a worthless placeholder in a number system that is otherwise lacking in value. But this belief hides its incredible importance in math, science, technology, even everyday life. Zero is a fundamental notion that permits advanced computations, fosters technical discoveries, and serves as a guiding principle in various areas. It demonstrates that even minuscule value can exist and is not useless.

Zero is one of the most important things in mathematics. It is the neutral element of addition and subtraction, meaning that adding or subtracting zero from a number doesn't affect it. Even more importantly, it is the root of the decimal place value system, setting up for clear numeric ranges. Without the zero, we couldn’t distinguish between 10 and 100. In addition, in algebra and calculus, zero is critical because it indicates limits, roots for equations, and is the basis for integral and differential calculations.

Zero is also quite significant in scientific applications. In physics, it expresses absolute zero — the lowest temperature possible, where molecular motion stops. If you want to learn about circuits, grounding systems, and electrical safety, you need solid knowledge of zero voltage. Moreover, in the field of computing and digital logic, where it is one of the two digits used in binary (0, and 1), the use of zero is what underlies all of modern computer applications, including machine learning and artificial intelligence.

In financial systems, zero is important in concepts like zero-based budgeting, which requires every spending to be justified from start, encouraging financial efficiency. In economics, zero inflation is an ideal scenario in which the cost of commodities remains constant, benefiting both consumers and businesses. Furthermore, a zero balance in debt management represents financial solvency and stability.

Beyond academic and professional applications, zero is woven into everyday life. Zero-waste living encourages filling your space and life with only the things you need. A score of zero can mean the difference in contest games. Also, the phrase starting from scratch is used as a metaphor of new start, that great things often come out of ground zero.

The power of zero can be seen, for instance, in personal growth and resilience. A lot of very successful entrepreneurs, athletes, and professionals have found themselves in a place where they have nothing—no resources, no support, no opportunity. But they dared to embrace the possibility of starting from zero; they climbed their way up, showing that zero does not mean the end, but is, in fact, a new beginning packed with possibilities.

Although it is a comparatively unpromising character, zero is a strong and a necessary one. Its basic mathematical processes are the underpinning of scientific discoveries, and it governs financial stability as well as philosophical ideas about existence and void. The paradox of zero is that it represents nothing, but is one of the most significant concepts in human thought and technological development. Zero is the foundation of our numerical system, and without it, our world would be a far less precise, logical, and efficient place.