Abstract
The foundation of scientific, technological and economic development of any nation is mathematics education. The development of a nation is a function of the improvement on the quality of mathematics education available for her citizens This paper consists of four parts. First, it explored the nature and characteristics of mathematics. Second, it highlighted some problems facing the quality teaching of mathematics in Nigeria. Third, it identified some contemporary problems of Nigeria. Finally, explanations were provided on the important roles of mathematics in addressing contemporary issues for national development purposes. Appropriate recommendations were made for the teachers of mathematics, curriculum developers, educational administrators and policy makers.