Hausa, one of Nigeria’s four official languages, holds significant cultural and academic value, especially in the northern region.
It is also a key subject for students preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). If you are planning to take Hausa as a UTME subject, understanding the best textbooks for preparation is essential.
This article provides a detailed list of JAMB-recommended textbooks for Hausa 2025/2026, practical tips for using them effectively, and answers to frequently asked questions about the syllabus, exam format, and scoring.
What Are the JAMB-Recommended Textbooks for Hausa 2025/2026?
JAMB’s official syllabus for Hausa divides the recommended textbooks into three main categories: Harshe (Language), Adabi da Al’adu (Literature and Culture), and Kamusai (Dictionaries).
Below are the titles and authors under each category:
- Harshe (Language)
- Galadanci, M.K.M. (1976) – Introduction to Hausa Grammar (Zaria: Longman)
- Junju, M.H. (1980) – Rayayyen Nahawun Hausa (Zaria: NNPC)
- Muhammad, Y.M. (2005) – Fassarar Hausa (Zaria: ABU Press)
- Sani, M.A.Z. (1999) – Tsarin Sauti Da Nahawun Hausa (Ibadan: UP Plc)
- Sani, M.A.Z. et al. (2000) – Exam Focus: Hausa Language (Ibadan: UP Plc)
- Skinner, N. (1977) – Grammar of Hausa (Zaria: NNPC)
- Yahaya, I.Y. et al. (1992) – Darussan Hausa 1–3 (Ibadan: UP Plc)
- Adabi da Al’adu (Literature and Culture)
- Bichi, A.Y. (1979) – Waƙoƙin Bikin Aure (Lagos: Nelson)
- Dangambo, A. (1984) – Rabe–Raben Adabin Baka Da Muhimmancinsa Ga Rayuwar Hausawa (Kano: T.P.C.)
- Gusau, S.M. (1991) – Makaɗa Da Mawaƙan Hausa (Kaduna: Fisbas Media Service)
- Ibrahim, M.S. (1977) – Kowa Ya Sha Kiɗa (Zaria: Longman)
- Madauci, I. et al. (1992) – Hausa Customs (Zaria: ABU Press)
- Umar, M.B. (1976) – Ƙanƙanraya Jos Da Waƙoƙinsa (Ibadan: OUP)
- Umar, M.B. (1977) – Wasannin Tashe (Zaria: NNPC)
- Kamusai (Dictionaries)
- Bargery, G.P. (1951) – A Hausa–English Dictionary and English-Hausa Vocabulary (London: OUP)
- Newman, R.M. (1997) – An English-Hausa Dictionary (Ibadan: Longman)
- Newman and Newman (1977) – Sabon Kamus Na Hausa Zuwa Turanci (Ibadan: UPL)
- Skinner, N. (1993) – Kamus Na Turanci Da Hausa (Zaria: NNPC)
- CSNL (2006) – Kamusun Hausa Na Jami’ar Bayero Ta Kano (Kano: CSNL)
- How to Use the JAMB-Recommended Textbooks for Hausa Effectively
- These textbooks provide valuable resources for mastering the Hausa language, literature, and culture. To maximise their benefits, follow these practical tips:
Familiarise Yourself with the JAMB Syllabus
The syllabus outlines the topics and objectives you are expected to cover for the UTME. It also includes sample questions to help you understand the exam format. You can access the syllabus from JAMB’s official website or trusted educational platforms.
Choose Textbooks That Match Your Needs
Not all recommended books may suit your level or preferences. Select the ones that align with your strengths. For instance, if you are better at grammar than literature, focus more on language-related books.
Read Actively and Critically
Engage with the content by asking questions such as:
- What is the primary message of this text?
- How does the author use language to convey this message?
- What similarities or differences exist between this text and others you’ve studied?
- Practice Past Questions and Mock Exams
- Supplement your reading by solving past questions. This helps in testing your understanding and improving your speed and accuracy.
Seek Additional Resources
While textbooks are crucial, expand your learning by exploring blogs, videos, and podcasts that discuss the Hausa language and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Format of the Hausa UTME?
The exam typically includes questions on grammar, literature, and culture. Both objective and theoretical formats are common.
How Is the Hausa UTME Scored?
Each correct answer adds to your total score, which is combined with scores from other subjects.
What Is the Minimum Score to Pass the Hausa UTME?
The pass mark depends on the institution and course of choice, but aiming for a high score increases admission chances.
Conclusion
JAMB’s recommended textbooks for Hausa 2025/2026 provide a comprehensive foundation for UTME preparation. By combining these books with the JAMB syllabus, active study, and practice, you can significantly enhance your performance.
Remember, these resources should be complemented by online materials, mentorship, and consistent practice to achieve your academic goals.