The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially revealed that The Lekki Headmaster, a novel authored by Kabir Alabi Garba, is the newly approved reading text for the Use of English section of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This announcement shared through JAMB’s verified Twitter account (@JAMBHQ) at 3:07 PM on January 14, 2025, encourages candidates to familiarise themselves with the book as part of their preparation.
JAMB also urged candidates to stay updated for additional details about the 2025 UTME and Direct Entry (DE) registration processes.
The tweet read:
“Attention prospective 2025 UTME candidates! This is to inform you that The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba has been approved as the reading text for the Use of English. Details on UTME/DE registrations shall be released shortly. Kindly be on the lookout for updates.”
Why JAMB Chose “The Lekki Headmaster”
JAMB’s decision to introduce The Lekki Headmaster as the new reading material reflects its commitment to diversifying the literary exposure of students. This novel replaces The Life Changer by Khadija Abubakar Jalli, which served as the prescribed text in recent years.
Set in the urban environment of Lekki, Lagos, The Lekki Headmaster delves into themes of leadership, education, and community development.
The story revolves around a passionate school headmaster who overcomes numerous obstacles to transform his local education system and uplift his community.
The relatable themes, coupled with the contemporary Lagos backdrop, make the book an engaging and thought-provoking choice for students.
Key Details About “The Lekki Headmaster”
Themes: The book highlights leadership, societal transformation, and the importance of education.
Setting: It is based in Lekki, Lagos, providing a modern, relatable context for Nigerian students.
Purpose: By using this novel, JAMB aims to challenge students intellectually and foster a deeper understanding of societal issues through literature.
Registration Updates and Advice for Candidates
While JAMB has not yet announced specific dates for the commencement of the 2025 UTME/DE registration or the cost of application forms, prospective candidates should regularly check JAMB’s official platforms for timely updates.
The use of the National Identification Number (NIN) remains mandatory for all applications.
Candidates are encouraged to begin studying The Lekki Headmaster immediately to gain a strong grasp of its themes, characters, and key messages. Preparing in advance ensures that students are well-equipped for the Use of English paper.
Transition from “The Life Changer”
JAMB periodically updates the prescribed texts for its Use of English paper to ensure students are exposed to a variety of literary works.
This change offers candidates the opportunity to explore fresh perspectives and new narratives while enhancing their critical thinking skills.
How to Get the Novel
For students wondering where to obtain the novel, The Lekki Headmaster is expected to be widely available in bookstores nationwide.
It may also be accessible through authorised JAMB vendors and online platforms. Candidates are advised to confirm the authenticity of any purchased copies to avoid counterfeit materials.
Stay Updated with JAMB
As the registration process approaches, JAMB will release further information regarding:
UTME/DE registration timelines
Approved examination centres
Official registration fees and guidelines
To stay informed, candidates should regularly visit JAMB’s website and follow its verified social media accounts.
Conclusion
Prospective candidates preparing for the 2025 UTME are strongly encouraged to read and study The Lekki Headmaster. Its engaging narrative and important themes provide a meaningful addition to their examination preparation. Regular updates about the UTME registration process will be provided by JAMB in the coming weeks, ensuring candidates remain informed about all necessary requirements.
Stay connected to JAMB’s official platforms for accurate information and avoid relying on unverified sources.