Lekki Headmaster JAMB Novel (JAMB 2026 Official Novel)
About JAMB and Its Novel Policy
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is Nigeria’s examination body responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), which serves as the gateway into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
For many years, JAMB has adopted a compulsory novel for all candidates sitting for the UTME. This novel is used to test comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking in the Use of English paper, with 10–15 questions drawn directly from the text. Past novels include Sweet Sixteen and The Life Changer. For 2026, JAMB officially selected The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba.
Introduction to The Lekki Headmaster
- Author: Kabir Alabi Garba, a Nigerian journalist and writer.
- Theme: Education, resilience, and leadership in the face of challenges.
- Setting: Lekki, Lagos – a fast‑growing urban area with unique social and educational struggles.
- Purpose: The novel highlights the dedication of a headmaster who strives to provide quality education despite limited resources and societal pressures.
Brief Summary
The Lekki Headmaster tells the story of a committed school headmaster in Lekki who faces numerous challenges in running his school. Despite infrastructural problems, financial constraints, and social issues in the community, he remains steadfast in his mission to ensure that children receive proper education. The novel explores themes of perseverance, integrity, and the transformative power of education in society.
For JAMB candidates, the book is not just a story but a tool for learning comprehension, character analysis, and moral lessons, which will be tested in the Use of English exam.
How and When to Get the Novel
- During Registration: Every candidate who registers for JAMB 2026 at an accredited CBT center will receive a copy of The Lekki Headmaster (either in print or digital format).
- Digital Access: Some centers provide a PDF version alongside the registration slip.
- Bookshops: Hard copies may also be available in major Nigerian bookstores for practice or replacement.
- Timing: Distribution begins immediately with UTME registration (January 31 – March 8, 2026).
Final Note
Reading The Lekki Headmaster thoroughly is non‑negotiable for success in JAMB 2026. Candidates should not rely on summaries alone but engage with the full text to understand its themes, characters, and lessons. This preparation will give them an edge in the Use of English section and boost overall performance.