IMPACT OF THE MIDDLE EAST CRISIS ON RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

This study examined the impact of the Middle East crisis, particularly tensions involving Iran, on research development in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The study adopted a systematic review model, drawing from peer-reviewed journal articles, policy reports, and credible economic and educational analyses. Findings revealed that the crisis has significantly affected research development through multiple channels, including reduced funding for research, increased cost of research materials, disruptions in international collaborations, and limited access to global research training opportunities. The study also found that inflation, exchange rate instability, and economic uncertainty have weakened institutional research planning and contributed to brain drain among academic staff. These challenges have collectively slowed research productivity and innovation in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The study concludes that global geopolitical crises have far-reaching implications for academic research systems in developing countries. It recommends diversification of research funding, strengthening of local research capacity, improved government intervention, and the adoption of resilient research management strategies to sustain research development in Nigeria.