Tribalism is a significant challenge to Nigeria’s unity and security. The country’s diverse ethnic groups have often found themselves at odds with one another, leading to conflicts and insecurity. Education has been touted as a potential solution to this problem, but can it truly make a difference? Nigeria’s history of tribalism dates back to the colonial era, when the British exploited existing ethnic divisions to maintain control over the country. This legacy of divide-and-conquer has persisted, with many Nigerians identifying more strongly with their ethnic group than with the nation as a whole. The resulting tensions have led to numerous conflicts, including the Biafran Civil War and more recent clashes between Fulani herders and farmers in the Middle Belt. Education has the potential to address tribalism in several ways. First, it can promote critical thinking and cultural awareness, helping individuals to see beyond their ethnic identities and appreciate the diversity of Nigerian cultures. Second, education can provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the modern economy, reducing the perceived need to rely on ethnic affiliations for economic advancement. However, the impact of education on tribalism is complex and influenced by a range of factors. In some cases, education may even exacerbate tribal tensions, particularly if it is not carefully managed. For example, if education is seen as a zero-sum game, where one ethnic group’s gains come at the expense of another, it may reinforce existing tensions. Furthermore, the Nigerian education system has historically been plagued by issues of access and equity, with some ethnic groups having greater access to quality education than others. This has led to a situation where some groups feel marginalized and excluded from the benefits of education, further fueling tribal tensions. Despite these challenges, there are examples of education being used to promote unity and reduce tribal tensions in Nigeria. For instance, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program brings together young people from different ethnic backgrounds to work together on community development projects. This type of program can help to break down stereotypes and build bridges between different ethnic groups. In conclusion, education has the potential to address tribalism as a cause of insecurity in Nigeria, but its impact is complex and influenced by a range of factors. To maximize the positive impact of education, it is essential to address issues of access and equity, promote critical thinking and cultural awareness, and provide opportunities for young people from different ethnic backgrounds to come together and build relationships. By doing so, Nigeria can harness the power of education to promote unity and reduce tribal tensions.