Conflict Management Strategies and Challenges of Implementation in Nigerian Tertiary Education

This study examines conflict management strategies and the challenges affecting their implementation in Nigerian tertiary education. Adopting a position paper methodology, the study relies on extensive review and critical analysis of existing literature, policy documents, and institutional reports related to conflict management in higher education. The findings reveal that weak institutional frameworks, leadership deficits, inadequate training in conflict resolution, cultural and hierarchical barriers, and resistance to participatory decision-making significantly hinder the effective application of conflict management strategies. These challenges contribute to recurrent industrial disputes, student unrest, administrative inefficiencies, and disruptions to academic calendars, thereby undermining institutional productivity and educational quality. The study concludes that conflict management in Nigerian tertiary institutions requires a deliberate, structured, and participatory approach supported by strong institutional frameworks, leadership capacity development, and continuous training. The paper recommends policy reforms, institutional capacity building, promotion of inclusive governance, and the adoption of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to strengthen conflict management systems and ensure sustainable institutional stability in Nigerian tertiary education.