Overview
JAMB 2025 UTME Novel: Lekki Headmaster by Oladejo Okediji; The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced Lekki Headmaster as the approved novel for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) ‘Use of English’. This decision reflects the board’s commitment to engaging candidates with educational and thought-provoking literature.
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For the past two years, JAMB utilized The Life Changer as the recommended text. The shift to Lekki Headmaster is intended to diversify the reading experience and encourage deeper engagement with Nigerian literature.
About the Author
Oladejo Okediji is a distinguished Nigerian journalist and author known for his impactful storytelling. His works often explore themes of resilience, social justice, and moral dilemmas, which resonate with readers of all ages. Lekki Headmaster is a fine example of his mastery in weaving relatable narratives with cultural richness and thought-provoking lessons.
About the Novel
Lekki Headmaster is set in a fictional coastal village in Lekki. It tells the story of Bepo Adewale, a dedicated teacher and headmaster at Stardom Schools, whose life is a microcosm of the socio-political challenges of post-colonial Nigeria. The novel uses satire, humour, and Yoruba cultural expressions to explore:
- Leadership: Bepo’s efforts to balance his professional duties and societal expectations.
- Corruption: A critique of the greed and dishonesty prevalent in society.
- Education: The struggles and triumphs of rural educational systems.
- Resilience: The perseverance of ordinary individuals against systemic challenges.
The book delivers moral lessons and inspiration through its captivating narrative and vivid use of Yoruba proverbs, showcasing Okediji’s storytelling brilliance.
Themes in Lekki Headmaster
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- Dedication to Education: Highlighting the role of educators in shaping society.
- Resilience in Adversity: Overcoming personal and systemic challenges.
- The Transformative Power of Knowledge: Education as a tool for societal change.
- Corruption and Leadership: Exploring the ethical dilemmas and societal impact of governance.
Likely JAMB Questions
Candidates should expect questions in the following areas:
- Themes: Dedication, corruption, leadership, and education.
- Character Analysis: Focus on Bepo Adewale, his challenges, and his influence on the community.
- Plot Development: Key events, turning points, and resolutions.
- Literary Devices: Use of Yoruba proverbs, satire, irony, and cultural expressions.
- Lessons and Morals: Societal issues and personal growth depicted in the novel.
Chapter-by-Chapter Summary and Insights
Chapter One:
The novel opens with an unusual assembly at Stardom Schools, where Mr. Bepo, the principal, displays uncharacteristic behaviour. Known for his vibrant persona, he appears melancholic and breaks down in tears on the podium.
- Key Events:
- The Vice Principal, Mrs. Grace Apeh, steps in to manage the situation.
- Staff members and the school’s Managing Director, Mrs. Ibidun Gloss, attempt to console him.
- Pastor Wande, the Physics teacher, suggests contacting his wife in London, hinting at personal struggles.
- Themes: Leadership, emotional resilience, and community support.
Likely Questions:
- Why was Mr. Bepo’s behaviour during the assembly unusual?
- Who managed the assembly after Mr. Bepo’s breakdown?
- What rumours circulated about Mr. Bepo’s emotional state?
- How did the staff respond to his condition?
- What role did Pastor Wande play in addressing the situation?
How to Prepare
- Obtain a copy of Lekki Headmaster and read it thoroughly.
- Focus on key events, character actions, and thematic highlights.
- Practice past JAMB questions related to prescribed texts.
- Discuss the novel with peers, teachers, and mentors to deepen your understanding.
Upcoming Resources
To support candidates:
- A chapter-by-chapter summary and analysis will be provided.
- 100 likely questions based on the novel will be made available.
- A downloadable PDF of the book and study resources will be shared for free.
Stay updated by joining our channel for notifications on study materials.
Conclusion
Lekki Headmaster by Oladejo Okediji is a compelling novel that offers invaluable lessons about education, leadership, and societal issues. Mastery of the text is crucial for success in the ‘Use of English’ segment of the 2025 UTME.
Good luck with your preparation!
