Nigeria's foreign policy is influenced by its position as a major exporter of

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what Nigeria is a major exporter of that shapes its foreign policy. We need the export that dominates Nigeria's economy and its relations with other countries.

Step 2: Explain the concept A country's foreign policy is shaped by its economic interests, especially what it sells abroad and who buys it. Nigeria's economy depends heavily on crude oil and natural gas, which are natural resources. This is why Nigeria:

• Is a member of OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) and takes part in its decisions.
• Pursues good relations with major oil buyers such as the USA, the European Union, India and China.
• Uses its economic weight to support regional and continental bodies like ECOWAS and the AU.
• Has used oil as a diplomatic tool, for example in the 1970s when oil influenced its stand on southern African liberation struggles.

Step 3: Eliminate the options

• A. Military equipment: Nigeria mostly imports arms, so this is wrong.
• B. Natural resources: Crude oil and gas make up the bulk of export earnings (over 80-90% of foreign exchange). This fits.
• C. Agricultural products: Cocoa, groundnut and palm produce were once important, but they are minor today compared with oil.
• D. Technology: Nigeria is a technology importer, not a major exporter.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is **B.

Exam tip: In Government questions on foreign policy and economic influence, think "oil" first. Whenever you see "major exporter" with Nigeria, the answer is usually crude oil, which falls under natural resources. Linking oil to OPEC membership will help you with many related questions.