The Lekki Headmaster: 2026 UTME Novel Questions, Answers & Explanations

The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba is the confirmed JAMB Use of English reading text for the 2026 UTME. This guide collects likely exam questions, clear answers, and explanations drawn from the novel to help you prepare efficiently.

How to Use These Practice Questions Effectively

• Treat each question as an exam item: answer under timed conditions, then check the explanation.
• Focus first on understanding plot points, character motives, proverbs, and key vocabulary—these are commonly tested.
• Retest yourself repeatedly. Spaced repetition (revisiting questions after intervals) improves recall.
• Summarise each chapter in your own words and practise explaining themes aloud or to a study partner.
• Use a mix of objective practice and short written answers to build both speed and depth.

Sample Questions & Detailed Answers – The Lekki Headmaster

Plot and Event Questions

1. Which dramatic event opens the novel?
   Mr. Bepo breaks down in tears during a school assembly, unable to announce his departure to the UK.
2. Why was Mrs. Ignatius's family unable to relocate abroad?
   Their daughter's DNA test revealed her spouse was not the biological father, ending their relocation plans.
3. What led to the "Ade as well as Jide comes" grammar controversy?
   The MD demanded the dismissal of the English teacher for using "comes" (singular verb), believing it to be wrong, but the Principal defended its correctness as per grammatical rules.
4. What is "The Breath Project"?
   An initiative by the Invention Club to produce phones using recycled materials and components.
5. How does the novel end?
   After a grand farewell, Bepo surprisingly returns to Stardom Schools, choosing to stay in Nigeria.

Character Analysis

6. Describe Mr. Bepo Adewale in brief.
   Tall, fair-skinned, dedicated headmaster known for his compassion, unique catchphrases, and deep commitment to teaching.
7. How did Sola Kareem's migration experience differ from Akindele's?
   Sola built a stable life and career overseas, while Akindele returned to Nigeria after losing everything due to personal issues abroad.
8. What role does Mr. Audu play in the story?
   He provides humor and light-hearted moments, easing tensions among staff and administration.
9. What challenge does Fafore face in his career?
   Struggles with low pay, long commutes, and almost losing his job due to a misjudged grammar dispute.

Themes and Literary Devices

10. What theme does the Point of No Return symbolize?
    It draws a parallel between the historical slave trade and modern migration, questioning whether leaving the country is always desirable.
11. How does the novel use irony?
    The elaborate farewell becomes unnecessary when Bepo does not relocate, and competent teachers face baseless threats to their jobs.
12. What message does the novel give about teaching?
    It is portrayed as a noble, nation-building profession—even more valuable than lucrative work abroad.
13. How is the theme of patriotism explored?
    Bepo's decision to remain in Nigeria is presented as an act of national service.

Context and Vocabulary

14. What does "Japa" mean?
    It is Nigerian slang for leaving the country, often in hopes of a better life abroad.
15. What is the significance of the Canoe Dance?
    It symbolizes both the historical journey of slaves and the present-day urge to migrate.
16. What is "gbemu"?
    Slang for a significant amount of money, often referencing foreign earnings.

Critical Thinking

17. Is Bepo's return realistic?
    While idealistic, the return dramatizes the value of home, personal fulfillment, and service over material reward, prompting readers to weigh priorities.
18. What can students learn about private education in Nigeria from the novel?
    There is irony and inequity in teachers at top private schools being unable to afford tuition for their own children, revealing challenges in the education sector.
19. Why is studying the proverbs in the story helpful for exam preparation?
    They are likely to be referenced directly or indirectly in UTME questions for their cultural, thematic, and moral significance.

Exam Study Tips for The Lekki Headmaster

• Read the novel several times, underlining key events and quotes.
• Practice with a mix of objective questions, vocabulary checks, and short essay-style analyses.
• Summarize each chapter and practise explaining major themes concisely—this helps in summary and comprehension questions.
• Form small study groups to quiz each other on characters, plot points, and proverbs; teaching others is a powerful way to remember details.
• Time yourself on multiple-choice practice to build speed. UTME success depends on accuracy under time pressure.

Final Notes

• Expect multiple direct questions from The Lekki Headmaster in the Use of English section—being familiar with quotes, events, and proverbs improves your chances.
• Combine novel-based practice with broad past-question drills to spot recurring question patterns and improve time management.
• Use reputable, up-to-date practice materials and avoid unverified sources. Regular revision and focused practice beats last-minute cramming.

Stay focused: strategic preparation and active practice are the most reliable ways to boost your UTME score.