JAMB Replaces The Life Changer with New Novel The Lekki Headmaster for 2025 UTMEHere’s what candidates need to know about the new Use of English novel.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba as the official novel for candidates sitting the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This move replaces The Life Changer, which had been in use since 2021, signaling a fresh direction for UTME candidates in their Use of English preparation.
What is The Lekki Headmaster About?
The novel centers on Mr. Bepo, principal of Stardom Schools, navigating the real-world challenges of Nigeria’s educational system — from staff disputes and financial crises to high parental expectations and personal dilemmas. Set in modern-day Lagos, the story explores leadership, morality, resilience, and hope.
Why This Change Matters
This change isn’t just a literary update — it reflects JAMB’s continued push to expose candidates to more relatable and socially relevant narratives. The novel’s themes resonate with the Nigerian experience and offer valuable lessons in leadership, empathy, and educational reform.
Meet the Key Characters
- Mr. Bepo – The main character and principal of Stardom Schools
- Mrs. Gloss – School’s Managing Director
- Mr. Amos – The accountant keeping the school’s finances in check
- Mrs. Apeh – Vice Principal and loyal assistant
- Chief David Aje – Founder of the school and power behind the scenes
The novel also features teachers, students, and parents who influence the school’s journey and Mr. Bepo’s leadership.
Themes Students Should Focus On
- Leadership in education
- Managing conflict and personal stress
- Family vs. professional obligations
- Parental influence in school matters
- Educational innovation in a challenging system
- The cost of progress and resistance to change
Chapter Highlights
From a denied visa to a mysterious dream figure, each of the 12 chapters presents a pivotal moment that shapes Mr. Bepo’s choices and reveals deeper insights about life, values, and society.
Key chapters include:
- Chapter 3 – Migration Tales
- Chapter 5 – Snake in the Roof
- Chapter 10 – Passport Pains
- Chapter 12 – Dawn
Exam Prep: Questions & Answers
To aid students, over 600 practice questions and answers have been compiled — covering everything from character motivations to major plot developments. These materials are crucial for mastering the Use of English section of the exam.
Sample Q&A:
- Q: What nickname was given to Mr. Bepo at Stardom Schools?
A: The Lekki Headmaster - Q: What financial strategy did the school use to improve punctuality?
A: Reduced boarding fees from N250,000 to N165,000 - Q: Why did Mr. Bepo consider relocating to the UK?
A: Family pressure and a desire to reunite with his wife and children
How to Get the Novel
Students can access The Lekki Headmaster in several formats:
- During Registration: Candidates registering at JAMB-approved CBT centers receive a free copy.
- Android Users: Download the CBT App examkits.com at Google Play Store
- PC Users: Use the examkits.com
- PDF Version: Available online PDF version for offline reading
Final Word
With The Lekki Headmaster, JAMB offers a relatable, thought-provoking novel that mirrors real-life challenges in Nigeria’s education sector. For candidates preparing for UTME 2025, this is more than a reading assignment — it’s a blueprint for understanding leadership, responsibility, and change.
Stay Ahead
Prepare with recommended resources:
- JAMB Brochure
- UTME Syllabus
- Subject Combinations for All Courses
- Top Textbooks for 2025 UTME Preparation
Visit examkits for continuous updates and resources to make your UTME journey successful.
You may also like to read: NYSC 2025 Batch ‘A’ Orientation Course: What Every Graduate Needs to Know
