Social Studies Education: A Tool for Curbing National Security Challenges and Development in Nigeria

Nigeria continues to face persistent national security challenges, including kidnapping, violent crime, ethno-religious conflicts, corruption, and social instability, which significantly undermine sustainable national development. This study examines the role of Social Studies Education as a strategic educational tool for addressing national security challenges and promoting national development in Nigeria. The study adopts a qualitative descriptive approach based on a comprehensive review of relevant theoretical, conceptual, and empirical literature on Social Studies Education, national security, and development. The analysis is guided by Social Learning Theory, Human Security Theory, Civic Republican Theory, and Education for Sustainable Development. Findings indicate that Social Studies Education can contribute to national security by promoting patriotism, civic responsibility, tolerance, peaceful coexistence, respect for diversity, conflict resolution, and non-violent approaches to social disputes. It also strengthens responsible citizenship and social cohesion, creating an enabling environment for sustainable national development. However, its effectiveness remains constrained by inadequate implementation, limited value-oriented pedagogy, and broader institutional challenges. The study concludes that strengthening Social Studies Education can provide a preventive and transformative approach to insecurity in Nigeria. It recommends strengthening its implementation across educational levels, adopting participatory teaching strategies, promoting national consciousness, and aligning educational policies with national security and sustainable development objectives