NIGERIA–INDIA EDUCATIONAL DIPLOMACY AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF TERTIARY EDUCATION IN NIGERIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF ACHIEVEMENTS, CHALLENGES, AND IMPLICATION FOR EFFECTIVE COUNSELLING FOR POLICY DIRECTIONS

Abstract

This chapter examines the role of Nigeria–India educational diplomacy in the development of tertiary education in Nigeria. Over the years, bilateral relations between Nigeria and India have expanded beyond trade and political cooperation to include strategic partnerships in education, particularly in higher education development. This chapter adopts a systematic review approach to analyze existing literature, policy documents, and media reports on the contributions of Nigeria India collaboration to tertiary education in Nigeria. The review identifies key achievements such as scholarship provision, capacity building, institutional development, and technological advancement. However, the chapter also highlights persistent challenges, including inadequate funding, policy inconsistency, infrastructural deficits, and brain drain. Drawing from both local and international sources, the study argues that while Nigeria–India collaboration has significantly contributed to human capital development, its full potential remains underutilized due to structural and policy constraints. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for stronger institutional frameworks, increased investment, and sustained policy commitment to enhance the impact of this bilateral partnership on Nigeria’s tertiary education system.