Mathematics Teaching as a Fundamental Tool for Self-Reliance and National Development

Mathematics teaching is an interaction between the teacher and the learners that leads to acquisition of desirable mathematical knowledge, ideas and skill. These mathematical ideas, knowledge and skills form the basic essential tools for human and national independence. This paper therefore discusses the concept of self-reliance, the concept of National development, the concept of Mathematics teaching, problems and prospects of Mathematics teaching, branches of Mathematics and its relevance, and finally Mathematics as a fundamental tool for self-reliance and national development. It was concluded that the essence of teaching Mathematics for self-reliance is to promote responsible citizens towards national development. Therefore, it was rec ommended amongst others that Mathematics teachers should endeavor to relate Mathematics concepts to real life situations.