Nigeria broke diplomatic relations with France in 1961 because of _______?

A. her poor relations with the Francophone countries
B. France atomic test in the Sahara desert
C. France diplomatic relations with Israel
D. General de-Gaulle’s negative attitude towards her

Correct Answer:

Option B – France atomic test in the Sahara desert

Explanation

In the realm of bilateral relations, Nigeria did not hesitate to break diplomatic ties with France in 1961 when France tested an atomic bomb in the Sahara Desert. The action was against the firm warning by Nigeria having observed that the test was going to be injurious to Nigeria and some other African countries. Thus, Nigeria imposed stern economic measures on France, first banning all ship movements of French origins from navigating the coastal areas of Nigeria.