The Philosophical Foundations of Early Childhood Education in the Nigerian Context

This study explores the philosophical foundations of early childhood education (ECE) in Nigeria by examining the interplay of indigenous African thought, Western educational theories, and religious values. It investigates how these diverse influences shape curriculum design, teaching practices, and policy directions. The research highlights the importance of integrating indigenous values like communalism and moral education with Western pedagogical models and religious teachings from Christianity and Islam. It also discusses emerging contemporary trends such as critical pedagogy and multiculturalism. The study concludes with recommendations for developing a harmonized, contextually grounded ECE framework that supports holistic child development in Nigeria.