Summary of The Lekki Headmaster – JAMB Novel for 2025/2026
The Lekki Headmaster is the official novel selected for the 2025/2026 JAMB UTME and Direct Entry examinations. Authored by Kabir Alabi Garba, the novel delves into critical social issues such as education, leadership, corruption, migration, and personal integrity.
It follows the journey of Mr. Adebepo Adewale, a devoted school principal, as he grapples with systemic problems within Nigeria’s education sector while facing personal conflicts that test his values and aspirations.
For JAMB candidates, understanding this book is crucial, as questions related to its themes, characters, and events will appear in the exam. This summary provides an in-depth breakdown of the novel’s key aspects to aid in better comprehension and retention.
About the Novel
- Title: The Lekki Headmaster
- Author: Kabir Alabi Garba
- Genre: Fiction
- Language: English
- Publication Year: 2024
- Themes: Education, Leadership, Corruption, Migration (Japa), Hard Work, Social Justice
Major Themes in The Lekki Headmaster
1. Education and Leadership
The story explores the role of school administrators in shaping students’ futures. Adebepo (Bepo) is depicted as a committed and disciplined leader determined to enforce order and high academic standards.
2. Corruption in the Education System
The novel sheds light on issues such as exam malpractice, favoritism, and the mismanagement of resources, illustrating how these problems hinder progress in Nigerian schools.
3. Migration (Japa) and Its Consequences
The book examines the increasing trend of Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad, particularly among professionals like Bepo, who is torn between his commitment to Nigeria and the promise of a better life overseas.
4. Integrity vs. Compromise
Bepo is faced with moral dilemmas where he must choose between maintaining his honesty or giving in to corruption, a recurring theme throughout the story.
5. Social Class and Political Influence
The novel highlights how the wealthy and politically connected manipulate school policies, influencing teacher appointments and disciplinary measures.
Short Summary of The Lekki Headmaster
The novel follows Adebepo Adewale, the headmaster of Stardom Schools, as he confronts workplace politics, student misconduct, and ethical dilemmas in his quest to improve the institution. While he is passionate about transforming the school, he is also faced with a personal dilemma—whether to stay in Nigeria and fight for educational reform or migrate to the UK to join his family. His final decision to leave sparks mixed reactions, raising important discussions on migration, leadership, and the future of Nigeria’s education system.
Chapter-by-Chapter Summary
Chapter One: The Arrival
Mr. Akinwale arrives as the new headmaster of Lekki Model Primary School, determined to bring order and discipline to an institution plagued by negligence and disorder.
Chapter Two: Resistance from Within
His reforms are met with resistance from the staff, especially Mr. Balogun, a senior teacher who benefits from the school’s lax policies. Students, accustomed to an undisciplined system, also rebel against the changes.
Chapter Three: A Battle for Change
Undeterred, Akinwale implements stricter attendance policies, a revised timetable, and higher academic expectations. While some appreciate his efforts, others attempt to undermine him.
Chapter Four: Community Backlash
Parents who previously took advantage of the school’s leniency complain about the new system, fearing that their children will struggle under Akinwale’s leadership.
Chapter Five: The Sabotage Begins
Akinwale becomes the target of false accusations and smear campaigns orchestrated by his detractors, who seek to force him out.
Chapter Six: A Ray of Hope
Despite the opposition, students like Tunde begin to show academic improvement, proving that Akinwale’s methods are effective.
Chapter Seven: Internal Betrayal
A shocking betrayal comes to light as a trusted teacher secretly conspires against Akinwale, leaking false information to his enemies.
Chapter Eight: The Board’s Intervention
The school board launches an investigation into Akinwale’s leadership, with both supporters and critics presenting their cases.
Chapter Nine: A Defining Moment
During the hearing, Akinwale passionately defends his reforms with evidence of improved student performance. His fate hangs in the balance as the board deliberates.
Chapter Ten: Justice Prevails
The board rules in Akinwale’s favor, exposing Mr. Balogun’s schemes and implementing changes to prevent further corruption.
Chapter Eleven: A New Dawn
With his leadership affirmed, Akinwale strengthens his policies, and the school begins to flourish under the new system.
Chapter Twelve: The Legacy of Change
The novel concludes with Lekki Model Primary School transformed into a center of excellence, proving that true leadership and perseverance can drive meaningful change.
Character Analysis
Mr. Adebepo Akinwale
A symbol of resilience and integrity, Akinwale fights for quality education despite facing overwhelming opposition.
Mr. Balogun
The antagonist, representing complacency and resistance to change. He embodies corruption and the struggle against progress.
Tunde
A student whose transformation under Akinwale’s leadership exemplifies the impact of effective educational policies.
Final Thoughts
The Lekki Headmaster is a thought-provoking novel that highlights the complexities of education, migration, leadership, and ethics in Nigeria. It raises important questions about systemic corruption and the difficult choices professionals must make in pursuit of a better life.
For JAMB candidates, a thorough understanding of the novel’s themes, characters, and key events is essential for answering exam questions effectively. This summary serves as a study guide to help students grasp the core message of the book and prepare adequately for the examination.
ALSO READ: UTME 2025: JAMB Novel (Lekki Headmaster) PDF Download
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