A Historical Analysis of Nigeria's Judicial Approaches to the Application of International Law in Post-Independence Nigeria

This paper examined Nigeria’s application of international law in her legal system especially in the post-independence period. As a signatory to most international agreements, the study discussed the extent to which Nigeria has complied with international law provisions and the implication for human rights, environmental protection and economic development. Utilising both primary and secondary sources of data, the study employed a narrative, descriptive and analytical historical approach, incorporating archival materials to substantiate empirical findings. These sources were subjected to textual and contextual analysis to ascertain their accuracy. The study found a significant difference between established international legal practices and their application in Nigeria during administrations under civilian rule and the military. It also identified other barriers to the
effective implementation of international law within the Nigerian legal system. These challenges have substantially hindered the alignment of domestic laws with international obligations and this has in turn, impacted on the Nigerian legal landscape. The study stressed therefore, the need to integrate international treaties into country’s domestic legal framework and in its conclusion called for comprehensive reforms to address the impediments whilst advocating an interplay between domestic and international law to promote a robust legal system in Nigeria.