The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has sent shockwaves through the educational community with the unveiling of the new recommended book for the Use of English section of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). In a statement released today, JAMB confirmed that the novel The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba will be the essential text for candidates preparing for the English exam.
In a tweet sent out via the social media platform X, JAMB urged prospective students to begin their preparations early and stay tuned for updates on the highly anticipated registration process. While registration for the UTME and Direct Entry (DE) exercises has not yet begun, the board made it clear that those intending to sit for the exams should be well-prepared well ahead of time.
A Literary Twist for UTME
The choice of The Lekki Headmaster as the recommended book for the English test marks a significant shift in the way JAMB is approaching the academic challenges posed by the examination. According to a JAMB spokesperson, this selection is part of the board’s ongoing efforts to offer a broad range of literature that resonates with contemporary Nigerian society.
“This is more than just a book for academic assessment,” the spokesperson explained. “Kabir Alabi Garba’s The Lekki Headmaster delves into the life and realities of modern Nigeria, touching on education, governance, and societal issues that are relevant to the examination. It reflects the kind of social narratives that our candidates must engage with to deepen their understanding of their environment.”
The novel tells the story of a young teacher’s transformative journey in one of Lagos’ most dynamic areas, offering a rich backdrop for the critical thinking and language skills required for the UTME.
A Closer Look at Registration
While the book selection has grabbed the headlines, JAMB has also issued a timely reminder to prospective candidates about the upcoming registration process. According to the board, although no official start date has been confirmed, those intending to register for the exams should ensure they have completed certain preliminary steps before the process officially opens.
One of the most crucial steps is obtaining a National Identification Number (NIN), which is now a compulsory requirement for all candidates. This is part of JAMB’s ongoing efforts to streamline the registration process and reduce fraudulent activities associated with the examination.
The board further emphasized that candidates should have a phone number that has not previously been used for any past JAMB registration. This advice, though simple, is essential as it guarantees the smooth retrieval of registration details should the candidate’s phone be lost or damaged.
“Candidates under the age of 18 should use a phone number that belongs to a parent or guardian,” JAMB stated in its official release. “This will make it easier to recover account details should they face any issues with their SIM card during or after registration.”
Safeguarding the Unique Identification Card
Perhaps one of the most critical pieces of advice issued by JAMB is the emphasis on protecting the unique identification card that is issued upon registration. According to the board, this card is irreplaceable, and losing it could lead to serious complications.
“Once issued, the identification card is unique to the candidate,” the spokesperson explained. “It is impossible to replace. If you lose the card, it could delay your registration or even your exam process.”
Candidates are therefore urged to take extra care in safeguarding their identification cards, ensuring they store it in a safe place. JAMB also recommended that candidates keep a copy of the card in case of any mishap.
More Updates Expected Soon
As the registration period approaches, JAMB has promised to release more information to assist candidates in navigating the process with ease. The board emphasized that it understands the challenges that come with preparing for such an important exam and is committed to making the process as smooth as possible for all candidates.
“We ask all prospective candidates to remain patient,” JAMB added. “We understand the excitement surrounding the registration process, but we assure you that all relevant details will be made available in due course. We encourage candidates to use this time wisely to prepare academically and ensure they meet all the requirements.”
A New Era for UTME Preparation?
For many, JAMB’s decision to incorporate contemporary Nigerian literature into the curriculum may signal a broader shift in the educational approach to exams. It is a departure from the usual focus on textbooks and study materials that candidates typically engage with, offering instead a literary work that explores real-world issues.
This choice has sparked some debate among educators, with some praising the novel for its timely engagement with social issues, while others remain skeptical about its relevance to the exam format.
“While the book may have merit in terms of narrative, I would have preferred a broader selection of books,” said one Lagos-based educator, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “The focus should still be on refining basic English comprehension and writing skills.”
Others, however, view the move as a welcome change, with the potential to make the UTME more reflective of the world students inhabit. A lecturer at the University of Lagos, Dr. Taiwo Ogunjimi, expressed her support for the initiative.
“This is an opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional academic learning and the real world. The Lekki Headmaster will challenge students to think critically about their surroundings, something that will benefit them beyond just passing the exam,” Dr. Ogunjimi said.
