Publication Details
Abstract
This study examines the impact of the Middle East crisis, particularly involving Iran, on Nigeria’s education system and the practice of counselling. Geopolitical instability in the Middle East has disrupted global oil markets, leading to inflation, rising operational costs, and fiscal pressures in oil-dependent economies like Nigeria. These economic shocks have indirect but profound effects on educational access, quality, enrolment, and early childhood education, as well as on the mental health and socio-emotional well-being of students and families. Using a review of local and international media reports, scholarly articles, and policy analyses, the study highlights five key implications for counselling practice, including increased psychological distress, academic uncertainty demand for trauma-informed support, resource limitations, and the need for economic literacy guidance. The paper concludes that addressing these challenges requires integrated strategies combining economic planning, educational funding, and strengthened counselling infrastructure. Recommendations include enhancing policy support, expanding counselling services, and integrating socio-economic resilience training into educational programs.