GEOPOLITICAL CONFLICT AND EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: THE IMPACT OF THE IRAN-CENTRED MIDDLE EAST CRISIS ON TERTIARY EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The resurgence of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the escalation of conflict involving Iran, has generated far-reaching global consequences that extend beyond the immediate region. This study examines the implications of the Iran-centred Middle East crisis on tertiary education in Nigeria, with emphasis on funding, administrative operating costs, international student mobility, international collaboration, conference and exchange programmes, and research implementation. Drawing on secondary data from credible newspaper reports, policy briefs, and scholarly analyses, the study adopts a qualitative approach to analyse how global economic disruptions—especially fluctuations in oil prices, inflationary pressures, and instability in international systems—affect the Nigerian higher education sector. The findings reveal that although Nigeria may experience temporary increases in oil revenue during periods of crisis, such gains are undermined by macroeconomic instability, rising operational costs, and declining international academic engagement. The study concludes that the crisis has indirectly weakened the capacity of Nigerian tertiary institutions to function effectively in a globalized academic environment. It recommends the adoption of strategic policy measures, including diversification of funding sources, strengthening institutional resilience, and enhancing regional academic cooperation, to mitigate the adverse effects of global geopolitical crises on education.