Inclusive Education in Nigeria Amid Global Economic Shocks: Implications of the Middle East Crisis for Access, Equity, and Policy Sustainability

This paper examines the implications of the Middle East crisis, with particular reference to Iran-related geopolitical tensions, on the sustainability of inclusive education in Nigeria. The study adopts a qualitative review approach, drawing evidence from policy documents, newspaper reports, and scholarly literature. It argues that global economic disruptions linked to the crisis have contributed to inflationary pressures, increased poverty levels, and fiscal constraints in Nigeria, all of which indirectly undermine inclusive education objectives. The findings reveal that vulnerable learners, especially children with disabilities and those from low-income households, are disproportionately affected through reduced access to schooling, limited learning support services, and declining educational quality. The paper concludes that while Nigeria’s inclusive education policy framework is progressive, its implementation is highly sensitive to external economic shocks. It recommends strengthened education financing, targeted social protection for vulnerable learners, and policy resilience mechanisms that can cushion the education sector against global economic instability.