Nigeria’s external policy as a planned course of action is developed by the ministry of

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which ministry develops Nigeria's external policy. "External policy" means foreign policy, which covers how Nigeria deals with other countries and international organisations.

Step 2: Explain the concept Foreign policy is a country's planned course of action in its relations with other states and international bodies such as the UN, AU, ECOWAS and the Commonwealth. In Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs (now often called the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs) formulates and implements this policy. It works under the guidance of the President, who is the chief architect of foreign policy. The ministry also manages embassies and high commissions, diplomatic relations, treaties and the protection of Nigerians abroad.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Domestic affairs: deals with internal matters such as the police, immigration, prisons and civil defence. It is not about external relations.
• B. Education: handles education policy.
• C. Finance: handles budgeting, revenue and economic management.
• D. Foreign affairs: handles relations with other countries, so it develops external policy.
• E. Justice: handles legal matters and is headed by the Attorney-General.

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is D. foreign affairs.

Tip: In exams, match the keyword in the question to the ministry. "External" or "foreign" points to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "Internal" or "domestic" points to the Ministry of Interior or Domestic Affairs.