RELEVANCE

This study presents an evaluation of Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s Social Contract Theory and explores its relevance to the Nigerian socio-political culture. Rousseau’s theory, expressed in his classical work, emphasizes that individuals give up certain freedoms in exchange for protection and civil order under a collective agreement. This contract creates a society governed by the general will, which represents the interest of all, thereby ensuring justice, equality, and the preservation of liberty. His ideas on sovereignty, popular participation, and the primacy of the common good remain central to political philosophy and provide a framework for understanding modern democratic governance. In the Nigerian context, the application of Rousseau’s Social Contract Theory reveals both its significance and its challenges. Nigeria, as a multi-ethnic and diverse nation, aspires to uphold democratic ideals, yet often faces political instability, corruption, and weak institutions that undermine the social contract between government and citizens. Rather than reflecting the general will, political power frequently serves personal or sectional interests, creating a disconnect between leadership and the governed. By drawing upon Rousseau’s vision of collective responsibility and accountability, Nigeria’s political culture can be critically examined with a view to reinforcing participatory governance, social justice, and inclusivity. However, the study also highlights limitations in directly applying Rousseau’s theory to Nigeria’s pluralistic society. The assumption of a unified will among citizens contrasts with Nigeria’s reality, where ethnic and religious divisions complicate the pursuit of a common purpose. The challenge, therefore, lies in adapting Rousseau’s principles to a diverse environment while ensuring respect for pluralism. The study concludes that Rousseau’s Social Contract Theory provides a useful philosophical framework for critiquing governance in Nigeria. While not a perfect fit, its ideals of equality, justice, and accountability offer a valuable lens for strengthening Nigeria’s democratic culture and addressing its socio- political challenges.

This study investigates the relevance of adult education in the
preservation of culture and tradition in Oredo local government area of Edo State. Five (5) research questions were raised to guide the study. A total of Six Hundred (600) respondents from the entire population of the inhabitants of Oredo local government area of Edo State where selected for the study through Purposive sampling technique. The questionnaire was designed and validated by experts in the department of Adult and Non-formal Education, Faculty of Education University of Benin. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques such as tables, frequencies counts, and simple percentages Findings of the study revealed that to a large extent adult education practiced in Oredo local government area of Edo State, that Adult education can help me to know more about my culture and values to be kept It was further revealed that participation of adults in the preservation of cultural heritages and values has increased through adult education and that through adult education programme, reformation of cultural heritages and values will be of immense help to preserve our culture. It was therefore
recommended that facilitators of adult education should impact knowledge and love for cultural heritage in a way that would inspire adults to participate in preservation of their cultural heritage and to pass the knowledge to coming generations. It was further recommended that Facilitators of adult education should impact knowledge and love for cultural heritage in a way that would inspire adults to participate in preservation of their cultural heritage and to pass the knowledge to coming generations.