The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has unveiled The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba as the official novel for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) Use of English paper.
JAMB announced this update through its official Twitter handle (@JAMBHQ) on January 14, 2025, at 3:07 PM, advising prospective candidates to familiarise themselves with the book while awaiting further details about the upcoming UTME/Direct Entry (DE) registration.
The tweet read:
“Attention prospective 2025 UTME candidates! 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. Stay updated for more information.”
New Text Replacing “The Life Changer”
The approval of The Lekki Headmaster replaces The Life Changer by Khadija Abubakar Jalli, which was the previous reading material for the Use of English paper.
This shift aligns with JAMB’s ongoing efforts to diversify the literary exposure of candidates and introduce fresh study materials.
The board remains committed to enriching the learning experience by selecting books that highlight relevant societal themes.
About “The Lekki Headmaster”
The Lekki Headmaster explores themes such as leadership, education, and societal transformation.
The novel is set in the vibrant city of Lekki, Lagos, and follows the journey of a dedicated school headmaster working to overcome numerous challenges.
His mission is to uplift his community and reform the educational system.
The novel’s relatable themes, modern setting, and thought-provoking narrative make it an engaging choice for students preparing for the UTME.
Its focus on real-world challenges offers valuable insights for candidates, encouraging them to reflect on critical societal issues while preparing for their exams.
Registration Details Still Pending
Although JAMB has yet to release the specific dates for the 2025 UTME/DE registration process, candidates are urged to monitor the board’s official platforms for updates.
Information on the cost of registration forms, the exam schedule, and other relevant details will be made available soon.
What Candidates Should Know
- Prepare Early: Candidates should begin studying The Lekki Headmaster to gain a thorough understanding of its plot, characters, and themes.This preparation is crucial for excelling in the Use of English paper.
- Stay Updated: Prospective candidates must regularly visit JAMB’s official website and social media pages to stay informed about the registration process and other key announcements.
- Adhere to Guidelines: The use of the National Identification Number (NIN) remains mandatory for all applicants. Ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared ahead of time to avoid delays during registration.
Why the Change?
JAMB’s decision to select The Lekki Headmaster underscores its commitment to promoting diverse literary works that reflect contemporary realities.
By choosing a novel set in an urban Nigerian context, the board provides candidates with relatable content that enhances their comprehension skills and cultural awareness.