For students preparing for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), one of the most important texts to study is the novel The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba.

This book has been officially approved by JAMB as the Use of English reading text for the 2026 UTME.

In this guide, you’ll find a clear summary of the story, key themes, characters, and why this book matters for your examinations.

Overview of The Lekki Headmaster

The Lekki Headmaster tells the emotional and inspiring story of Adewale Bepo, a devoted principal who faces personal and professional challenges while leading an elite secondary school in Lekki, Lagos.

The novel explores themes of purpose, migration, integrity, leadership, and the challenges within Nigeria’s education system.

This narrative resonates with many young Nigerians and aligns with educational themes that JAMB wants students to engage with in the Use of English paper.

Main Plot Summary

1. Introduction to Mr. Bepo

The story begins with Mr. Bepo, the respected principal of Stardom Schools in Lekki, suddenly breaking down in tears during a school assembly. This surprising moment captures the attention of students and staff, signaling that something deeper is going on in his life.

2. Bepo’s Internal Conflict

Mr. Bepo is under intense pressure from his family to leave Nigeria for the United Kingdom so he can reunite with his wife and children. They believe a move abroad will offer better opportunities and financial security. But Bepo loves his school and students deeply and feels torn between personal desires and professional commitment.

Check out: Common Biometric Errors During JAMB 2026 Registration (And How to Avoid Them)

3. The Theme of Migration (“Japa”)

The novel uses Bepo’s struggle to discuss a major issue facing many Nigerians, the desire to migrate for a better life. Throughout the story, readers see the emotional and practical complications of this decision. Bepo reflects on stories of Nigerians abroad, some succeeding, others struggling; giving readers a deeper understanding of the “Japa” mindset.

4. Flashbacks to Bepo’s Career

The narrative flashes back to pivotal moments in Bepo’s life and career:

• His earlier teaching experiences

• Conflicts with school management at previous institutions

• Efforts to open a private school with a colleague

• Instances of unethical practices in some educational environments

These stories highlight Bepo’s integrity, resilience, and commitment to ethical leadership in schools.

5. Emotional Farewell and Dramatic Return

After much turmoil, Bepo decides to leave Nigeria, and Stardom Schools organizes a grand farewell. Teachers, students, and school leaders celebrate his achievements, showing deep respect and admiration. However, at the departure point, Bepo’s internal conflict comes full circle — and he unexpectedly returns to the school, proclaiming that he cannot abandon his mission to educate and inspire young people.

Key Characters

• Adewale Bepo: The central character and headmaster, known for his compassion, integrity, and leadership.

• Mrs. Ibidun Gloss: The Managing Director of Stardom Schools who respects and supports Bepo’s work.

• Students and Staff: Represent the community changed by Bepo’s leadership.

Major Themes to Study

Check out: Trade Subjects for Science Students in Nigeria: A Complete Guide

1. Leadership and Commitment

The novel shows how strong leadership can transform student lives and school culture. Bepo’s refusal to leave reflects his core belief in the power of education.

2. Migration and Identity

Bepo’s dilemma mirrors the real-life choices many Nigerians face: stay and build locally or seek opportunities abroad. This theme offers rich insight into Nigeria’s socio‑economic challenges.

3. Integrity and Ethical Conflict

Through flashbacks, the story reveals ethical challenges in educational systems — from low standards to misguided practices and shows Bepo’s moral stance in responding to them.

Why It Matters for JAMB 2026

JAMB selected this novel because it:

• Encourages critical reading and comprehension

• Explores relevant social issues students can relate to

• Provides evaluative, discussion‑worthy passages for exam questions

Most questions in the Use of English paper will focus on understanding the text’s meaning, themes, vocabulary in context, and critical interpretation.

Tips for Studying “The Lekki Headmaster”

1. Read Chapter Summaries: Do a chapter‑by‑chapter review to understand the flow of events.

2. Focus on Themes: Think about the big ideas; migration, leadership, identity, and integrity.

3. Practice Past Questions: Use sample questions related to the novel to practice comprehension and analysis.

4. Take Notes: Jot down key events, character traits, and quotations for quick revision.

The Lekki Headmaster — Chapter‑by‑Chapter Summary & Study Guide

This guide breaks The Lekki Headmaster into manageable sections to help you understand the story deeply, remember key details, and practice likely JAMB‑style questions.

Chapter 1 — Mr. Bepo’s Tears at Assembly

Key Points

• Adewale Bepo is introduced as the headmaster of Stardom Schools, Lekki.

• During a morning assembly, he unexpectedly breaks down in tears.

• Students and teachers are shocked, this unusual behavior reveals emotional tension.

Themes

• Emotion beneath leadership

• Public vs private life

Study Tip

Focus on why someone in a leadership position might cry,  it’s not just emotion but conflict.

Sample Question

Why did Mr. Bepo’s tears surprise the school community?
A. He was usually angry
B. He was strict and unemotional
C. He never spoke in assemblies
D. He was new to the school

Correct answer: B

Read now: Solar Energy Vocational Course for Secondary Students: A Complete Guide

Chapter 2 — Family Pressure and Dilemma

Key Points

• Bepo gets messages from family urging him to join them abroad (UK).

• His wife and children live overseas, and he is expected to follow.

• This creates a central internal conflict: stay or leave.

Themes

• Migration (“Japa”)

• Loyalty vs ambition

Study Tip

Notice how the author connects personal life with national issues, migrating for a better life is a big theme.

Sample Question

The main conflict introduced in this chapter is between Bepo’s
A. friends and family
B. past and future plans
C. career loyalty and family pressure
D. academic success and social life

Correct answer: C

Chapter 3 — Flashbacks to Early Career

Key Points

• Bepo remembers his early teaching days.

• He faces challenges in previous schools.

• Shows his commitment to education even in tough conditions.

Themes

• Integrity

• Resilience

Study Tip

Pay attention to the contrast between his past struggles and his current position, this highlights his growth.

Check out: What Are Trade Subjects? A Complete Guide for Students and Learners

Sample Question

What quality does Bepo’s early career best represent?
A. Laziness
B. Carelessness
C. Commitment
D. Indifference

Correct answer: C

Chapter 4 — The School Community Reacts

Key Points

• Students and staff begin to talk about Bepo’s situation.

• Some express admiration, others doubt his choices.

• School morale is affected.

Themes

• Community influence

• Perception vs reality

Study Tip

Look for how characters’ opinions reflect social attitudes toward success and migration.

Sample Question

The students’ reactions to Bepo’s situation mainly show
A. fear of examinations
B. concern for school reputation
C. admiration mixed with uncertainty
D. jealousy of his achievements

Correct answer: C

Chapter 5 — Personal Reflections and Doubts

Key Points

• Bepo reflects on people he knows abroad, some successful, some struggling.

• He questions whether leaving would truly make life better.

Themes

• Reality of migration

• Personal identity

Study Tip

This chapter deals with internal monologue, the thoughts inside Bepo’s mind. Practice identifying feelings vs facts.

Related: WAEC First Series GCE 2026 CBT Centers in Lagos: Complete Guide for Students

Sample Question

Bepo’s reflections on life abroad serve to
A. confirm that migration is always best
B. show his uncertainty about leaving
C. convince everyone that Nigeria has no opportunities
D. prove that foreign countries are perfect

Correct answer: B

Chapter 6 — Farewell Arrangements

Key Points

• The school decides to hold a farewell party for Bepo.

• Teachers, students, and staff celebrate his contributions.

• The event highlights his influence on the school.

Themes

• Recognition

• Community support

Study Tip

Summarize the farewell by listing what others say about Bepo, it helps with character analysis.

Sample Question

The farewell party mainly shows Bepo’s
A. failure as a leader
B. popularity among students
C. lack of impact
D. desire to quit teaching

Correct answer: B

Chapter 7 — The Airport Twist

Key Points

• Bepo reaches the airport ready to leave.

• Just before boarding, he changes his mind.

• He decides not to go and returns to the school.

Themes

• Purpose and calling

• Reaffirmation of identity

Study Tip

This is the climax, the emotional and narrative high point. Focus on reasons behind his decision.

Check out: Livestock Farming Practical Guide for WAEC Students (Complete Study & Exam Success Guide)

Sample Question

What is the main reason Bepo decides not to leave the country?
A. He missed someone
B. He remembers his passion for teaching
C. He is afraid to travel
D. He forgets his passport

Correct answer: B

Chapter 8 — A New Beginning

Key Points

• Bepo returns to Stardom Schools with renewed purpose.

• The school community welcomes him with joy.

• Students feel hope and inspiration.

Themes

• Renewal

• Leadership and influence

Study Tip

Note how this ending contrasts with many stories about migration, it celebrates impact at home.

Sample Question

The ending of the novel emphasizes
A. hesitation
B. failure
C. leadership and purpose
D. confusion

Correct answer: C

Major Themes to Remember

Common Literary Devices in the Novel

• Flashback: Helps explain Bepo’s past decisions and values

• Symbolism: The airport symbolizes choice and identity

• Dialogue: Shows relationships and conflicts

• Narrative tension: Builds suspense about Bepo’s decision

Exam‑Style Questions You Might See

Comprehension

1. Explain why Bepo cried at the assembly.

2. Describe Bepo’s internal conflict and how it reflects broader social issues.

Vocabulary in Context

1. In the sentence “Bepo’s tears shocked everyone”, what does “shocked” mean?
   A. Happy
   B. Surprised
   C. Angry
   D. Frustrated
   Correct: B

Theme Analysis

1. Discuss how The Lekki Headmaster challenges the idea that success is only found abroad.

Study and Revision Tips

Reread chapter summaries before the exam
Create flashcards for key themes and characters
 Practice past JAMB comprehension questions
Highlight important quotes from the novel
Discuss the novel with classmates or in study groups

Conclusion

The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba is an inspiring and meaningful novel selected as the JAMB 2026 Use of English reading text.

The story of Mr. Bepo his commitment to education, internal conflicts about migration, and return to his school offers rich material for comprehension, analysis, and reflection.

Students preparing for WAEC or JAMB should study this book carefully, focusing on its main plot, characters, and themes, as these will help in answering exam questions accurately and confidently.