Nigeria was classified as a Frontline State due to its strong support for the liberation struggles in Southern Africa, particularly against apartheid in South Africa and colonial rule in Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Mozambique. Although the term "Frontline States" originally referred to Southern African countries bordering apartheid South Africa, Nigeria was recognized for its financial, diplomatic, and military assistance to liberation movements like the African National Congress (ANC) and the South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO).