The JAMB syllabus for History 2026/2027 is an official academic guide designed to outline the scope and depth of historical knowledge required of UTME candidates. It serves as a standardized framework through which candidates can adequately prepare for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
This UTME syllabus for History defines the specific historical periods, themes, and analytical skills that candidates are expected to master. It also aligns secondary school history education with the assessment standards of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
The History JAMB syllabus is particularly relevant for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions to study History and related disciplines. It ensures uniformity in examination expectations and promotes intellectual discipline in historical reasoning.
By adhering strictly to the JAMB syllabus for History 2026/2027, candidates are better positioned to organize their studies effectively. The syllabus also helps teachers and tutorial centres structure their instructional content in line with UTME requirements.
Overall, the UTME syllabus for History functions as both a preparatory tool and an evaluative benchmark. Its relevance lies in guiding candidates toward a comprehensive understanding of historical processes and interpretations.
Purpose of the JAMB Syllabus for History
The primary purpose of the JAMB syllabus for History 2026/2027 is to define the academic boundaries of the UTME History examination. It specifies the topics and competencies that candidates must demonstrate to qualify for tertiary-level historical studies.
Additionally, the History JAMB syllabus aims to test candidates’ understanding of historical events, causes, consequences, and interrelationships. It emphasizes critical thinking, chronological awareness, and the ability to interpret historical evidence objectively.
General UTME Objectives for History
The UTME syllabus for History is structured to achieve several educational objectives central to historical scholarship. Candidates are expected to acquire a sound knowledge of African and world history with particular emphasis on Nigeria.
Furthermore, the JAMB syllabus for History 2026/2027 seeks to develop candidates’ abilities to analyze historical sources, understand continuity and change, and appreciate the role of history in nation-building. It also encourages the cultivation of informed perspectives on contemporary issues through historical understanding.
Overview of the Syllabus Structure
The History JAMB syllabus is organized thematically and chronologically to reflect major historical developments. It progresses from early societies through pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial periods, extending to selected aspects of world history.
Each section of the UTME syllabus for History integrates factual knowledge with analytical competencies. This structure ensures that candidates are not only tested on memorization but also on interpretation, evaluation, and historical judgment.
Detailed JAMB Syllabus for History 2026/2027 (Table Format)
| Topic | Sub-Topics | Key Learning Objectives | Expected UTME Competencies |
|---|---|---|---|
| History and Historical Studies | Meaning of history; Sources of history; Importance of history | Understand the concept and scope of history; Identify primary and secondary sources | Ability to define history and distinguish historical sources |
| Early Man and Society | Origin of man; Stone Age cultures; Development of tools | Explain human evolution and early social organization | Demonstrate knowledge of early human activities |
| Ancient Civilizations | Egypt; Nubia; Axum | Analyze political, social, and economic structures of ancient states | Compare features of ancient African civilizations |
| Pre-Colonial Nigerian States | Nok; Kanem-Bornu; Oyo Empire; Benin Kingdom | Examine state formation and governance systems | Identify characteristics of major Nigerian states |
| Trans-Saharan Trade | Trade routes; Commodities; Impact on societies | Assess economic and cultural exchanges | Explain effects of trade on political development |
| Islamic Influence in West Africa | Spread of Islam; Education; Administration | Understand Islamic contributions to governance and learning | Analyze Islamic impact on West African societies |
| European Contact with Africa | Early explorers; Trade relations | Explain motives for European contact | Identify consequences of early European activities |
| The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade | Origins; Organization; Effects | Evaluate causes and consequences of slavery | Demonstrate understanding of social and economic impacts |
| Abolition of Slave Trade | Abolition movements; Legitimate trade | Understand factors leading to abolition | Explain transition to legitimate commerce |
| Colonial Rule in Nigeria | Indirect rule; Administration; Economic policies | Analyze colonial governance structures | Assess colonial impacts on Nigeria |
| Nationalism and Independence | Nationalist movements; Political parties | Trace the struggle for independence | Identify key nationalist leaders and events |
| Post-Independence Nigeria | Military rule; Civil war; Democracy | Understand post-colonial challenges | Analyze political developments after independence |
| West Africa Since Independence | Regional cooperation; ECOWAS | Examine regional integration efforts | Explain objectives of ECOWAS |
| World History: Europe | Renaissance; Reformation; Industrial Revolution | Understand major European transformations | Identify causes and effects of European revolutions |
| World History: Global Conflicts | World Wars I and II; Cold War | Analyze causes and outcomes of global conflicts | Demonstrate chronological understanding of wars |
Recommended Textbooks and Study Materials
Candidates preparing with the JAMB syllabus for History 2026/2027 are advised to consult authoritative and JAMB-recommended texts. Standard Nigerian secondary school history textbooks that comprehensively cover pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial periods are essential.
In addition, candidates should study past UTME questions aligned with the UTME syllabus for History to familiarize themselves with examination patterns. Scholarly history texts, atlases, and officially approved JAMB materials further enhance conceptual clarity and examination readiness.
A thorough understanding of the UTME syllabus for History is indispensable for academic success in the examination. Consistent and disciplined study guided by the JAMB syllabus for History 2026/2027 significantly improves candidates’ performance and preparedness for tertiary historical studies.
