Global and Societal Issues in Adult Education: Implications for Policy and Practice in Nigeria

Adult education remains central to achieving inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all as envisioned in Sustainable Development Goal 4. However, in contemporary era the field has faced unprecedented global and societal pressures that have reshaped its priorities and delivery mechanisms. This paper explores these pressures with a particular focus on Nigeria within a comparative international frame. Drawing on recent reports and studies, including UNESCO's Global Report on Adult Learning and Education 5 (GRALE 5), OECD Skills Outlooks, and Nigerian research, the paper identifies key global issues such as widening digital divides, migration and demographic shifts, funding constraints, climate change impacts, and post-COVID-19 recovery challenges. It also analyses societal factors that intensify or mitigate these challenges in Nigeria: inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, gender disparities, socio-cultural barriers, and gaps in policy implementation. Using a descriptive and analytical approach, the paper synthesises evidence and highlights promising practices from other regions to inform Nigerian adult education policy and practice. The findings underscore the need for integrated, well-funded, and inclusive adult education systems, greater use of digital technologies, and stronger partnerships across government, civil society, and international agencies to achieve transformative lifelong learning outcomes.