Abstract: This study investigated motivation as the determination of. TeacherοΏ½s performance in secondary school social science subjects. The study was carried out in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Eight secondary schools were randomly selected for the purpose of carrying out the study . However, the sample population represents all secondary school teachers in the State. The study employed survey design for the study. Questionnaire was used to gather information and it was well validated before use. Among other things, the study revealed that most teachers expected good performance from their students as this will make them to feel fulfilled at least to some extent. It was also reveled that where the teacherοΏ½s salaries were so bad and poor, many teachers looked for greener pastures while those that endured had divided interests. The study also showed that the principals good leadership styles provided motivation for teachers. The study concluded by making some recommendations which include: That teachers should be given special salary packages as being enjoyed lecturers in the tertiary institutions. That principals should be more firmed, highly considerate and humane in their relationship with their teachers. That government should organize seminars and workshops for teachers on regular basis to brush them up.