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Nigeria: Dancing on the Brink

Author: John Campbell, Ralph Bunche Senior Fellow for Africa Policy Studies

Nigeria: Dancing on the Brink - nigeria-dancing-on-the-brink
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Publisher A CFR Book. Rowman & Littlefield

Release Date November 2010

Price $29.95

192 pages
ISBN 978-1442206892

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Overview

Nigeria, the United States' most important strategic partner in West Africa, is in trouble. While Nigerians often claim they are masters of dancing on the brink without falling off, the recent vacuum in government authority, the upcoming 2011 elections, and escalating violence in the delta and the north may finally provide the impetus that pushes it into the abyss of state failure.

John Campbell explores Nigeria's postcolonial history and presents a nuanced explanation of the events and conditions that have carried this complex, dynamic, and very troubled giant to the edge. Central to his analysis are the oil wealth, endemic corruption, and elite competition that have undermined Nigeria's nascent democratic institutions and alienated an increasingly impoverished population. However, state failure is not inevitable nor is it in the interest of the United States. Campbell provides concrete policy options that would not only allow the United States to help Nigeria avoid state failure but also to play a positive role in Nigeria's political, social, and economic development.

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"Will provide a reference point for political discourse about Nigeria for years to come."
—Professor Stan Chu Ilo, University of Toronto (NigeriaWorld)

"Masterly."
—Father Matthew Hassan Kukah in Leadership, via AllAfrica.com

"This lucidly written book will appeal to scholars, policymakers, and general readers. John Campbell explores key political, economic, and social issues and frankly evaluates U.S. policies in helping or inhibiting the building of a stable, democratic, and less corrupt Nigeria. It is essential reading for all concerned about the unfulfilled potential, and uncertain future, of this complex nation."
—Richard Joseph, Northwestern University

"A fascinating work. In its coverage of contemporary Nigeria, above all what Ambassador Campbell learned in his Abuja assignment, it is a lucid and valuable contribution. Campbell writes with unusual candor, and with his initial academic training as a historian, he brings analytical discipline to his writing. This is much more than a mere memoir."
—Crawford Young, University of Wisconsin-Madison

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