This study examined the relationship among self-esteem, goal orientation and academic achievement of secondary school students in Zaria Metropolis, Kaduna State. A correlational research design was used in carrying out this study. The sample size for the study consists of 367 students drawn from eight randomly selected schools through cluster sampling techniques. Two standard, valid and reliable instruments which were related to the variables of the study (self-esteem and goal orientation questionnaire) comprising of 10 items and 16 items respectively were used to collect data for the study. SS11 qualifying examination result was used as measure of academic achievement.Five Null hypotheses formulated were tested at 0.05 Alpha level of significance, the data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC).The findings of the study revealed that significant relationship existed between the academic achievement and the level of self-esteem of students in secondary schools (r = 0.880 p=0.001), significant relationship existed between the academic achievement and the level of Goal Orientation of students in secondary schools. (r=0.766, p=0.002), significant relationship existed between the Goal Orientation and Self Esteem of students in secondary schools (r=0.773, p=0.003).It was recommended that, care should be taken of learners with low self-esteem who tend to underrate their potentials and abilities in academic achievement by bringing them into a suitable teaching environment by minimal steps in learning so that success at every step can carry them forward, this will greatly improve their self-esteem and enhance academic achievement.