JAMB Novel 2026 The Lekki Headmaster: What to Know and How to Prepare

If you are writing JAMB 2026, you must read the official Use of English novel. JAMB has confirmed that the 2026 reading text is The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba. The 2026 UTME is expected to begin on 16 April 2026.
Source: JAMB 2026 registration document reports and updates.

Why the JAMB novel is important

Many candidates ignore the novel and later regret it.

JAMB Use of English includes a "reading text" section. According to the JAMB Use of English structure, the reading text carries 10 questions. That means you can gain marks if you prepare well.

What JAMB usually tests from the novel

JAMB questions from the novel are not random. They often test:

• plot (who did what, when, why)
• characters (roles, actions, relationships)
• settings (where key events happened)
• themes (main messages in the story)
• lessons and morals
• meaning of words used in context

If you read only once, you will forget details. You need a simple reading method.

The best way to study The Lekki Headmaster for JAMB 2026

Use this method because it is fast and effective.

Step 1: Read the novel the first time for understanding

Do not rush to memorize. Just understand the story.

Goal: - know the story flow - know the main character and their struggles - know the important events

Step 2: Read the second time with notes

This time, write short notes as you read.

Your notes should include: - Chapter summary in 3 to 7 lines - New words you did not understand - Major events that changed the story - Any conflict and how it was resolved

Step 3: Create a "fast revision page"

This is one page you will revise many times.

Write: - main characters and their key actions - main themes - 15 to 25 key events in order - 10 lessons from the story

Step 4: Practice questions weekly

Do not wait until the exam week.

A good plan: - Week 1: read and understand - Week 2: read again with notes - Week 3 onward: practice questions and correct mistakes

Common mistake: depending only on summary

Summary helps, but summary alone is risky. JAMB can ask small details that only full reading can answer.

So use summary for revision, not as your only study method.

What to do now (simple checklist)

• Get the book and start reading early
• Read twice
• Make chapter-by-chapter notes
• Practice questions every week
• Revise your fast revision page often

JAMB Novel 2026 The Lekki Headmaster FAQs

What is the JAMB novel for 2026?

The JAMB Use of English novel for 2026 is The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba.

Is The Lekki Headmaster confirmed for JAMB 2026?

Yes. JAMB confirmation has been reported as part of the 2026 UTME registration guidance and updates.

When is JAMB 2026 starting?

Reports state the 2026 UTME is scheduled to begin on 16 April 2026.

How many questions will JAMB set from the novel?

JAMB Use of English structure shows the "reading text" section has 10 questions.

Should I read the novel or just read summary?

Read the full novel. Summary is for revision, but JAMB can ask small details that summaries miss.

What should I focus on while reading The Lekki Headmaster?

Focus on: - major events in order - characters and what they did - themes and lessons - settings of key scenes - meaning of words in context

How many times should I read the JAMB novel?

At least 2 times: - first time for understanding - second time for notes and details If you have time, read a third time for fast revision.

How do I remember the story easily?

Use a one-page fast revision note: - key characters - key events in order - themes and lessons Then revise it weekly.

Can I score high in English without reading the novel?

It is possible, but risky. The novel gives you extra marks because it has a dedicated reading text section.

What is the fastest study plan for the novel?

• 7 days: read the full novel
• next 7 days: read again and write notes
• every week after: practice questions and revise your notes

If I do not have time, what should I do?

Read the full novel once, then revise chapter summaries and practice many questions. But do not skip the full reading completely.