What to Expect in JAMB History in 2025/2026

What to Expect in JAMB History in 2025/2026; If you are preparing for the JAMB History exam in 2025/2026, it’s important to know what to expect so you can study very well. JAMB History is a subject that tests your knowledge of historical events, political changes, and key figures, especially in Nigeria and Africa. In this article, we will guide you through what you need to study and how to prepare for the exam.

Table of Contents

What is JAMB History?

JAMB History is a subject that helps students understand the past and how it shapes the present. The subject involves the study of events, people, and movements that have had a big impact on the world, especially Nigeria and Africa. It is divided into topics like the history of Nigeria, African history, and world history. The questions in JAMB History mostly come in the form of multiple-choice questions that cover facts, dates, causes, effects, and important historical events.

Key Areas to Focus on for JAMB History in 2025/2026

1. Pre-Colonial African History

One of the first areas you should focus on is the history of Africa before colonization. This period is important because it shows how African societies were organized before Europeans came to Africa. Key topics include:

The Early African Kingdoms: Learn about important kingdoms such as Ancient Egypt, Mali, Ghana, and Songhai. Understand how these kingdoms were governed and their major achievements.
African Societies and Culture: Study the social structure, religions, and cultures of early African societies. This includes the importance of trade, art, music, and education in these societies.
The Trans-Saharan and Transatlantic Trade: Learn about the trade routes that connected Africa to other parts of the world, such as the slave trade, gold trade, and salt trade.

Understanding pre-colonial African history will give you a strong foundation for studying colonial and post-colonial history.

2. Colonial History of Nigeria

A big part of JAMB History is understanding Nigeria’s colonial past. You need to focus on:

Colonialism in Nigeria: Study how European powers, especially Britain, took control of Nigeria. Learn about the factors that led to colonization and how the British established control over Nigeria.
The British in Nigeria: Understand the system of indirect rule that the British used to govern Nigeria. Learn about the role of traditional rulers and the impact of British policies on Nigerian society.
Colonial Economy and Social Life: Study how colonization changed the economy and society in Nigeria. Focus on the introduction of cash crops, the development of infrastructure like roads and railways, and the impact of Western education and Christianity.

Colonial history is key because it helps you understand how Nigeria became what it is today.

3. Fight for Independence

The Fight for independence is another major topic in JAMB History. You should focus on:

Nationalist Movements: Study the different movements that fought for Nigeria’s independence, such as the National Democratic Party (NDP), the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM), and the Action Group (AG).
Important Nationalists: Learn about key figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello. Understand their roles in Nigeria’s fight for independence.
The Road to Independence: Understand the events that led to Nigeria’s independence in 1960, including the Constitutional Conferences and the role of the British government in granting independence.

The struggle for independence is a major area in JAMB History and is often tested with questions about key events and people involved.

4. Post-Independence Nigeria

After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, the country went through many changes. You need to focus on:

The First Republic (1960-1966): Study the early years of independence, the formation of political parties, and the challenges the country faced, such as ethnic tensions and the civil war.
Military Rule: Learn about the different military regimes that ruled Nigeria, including the military coups of 1966 and the leadership of generals like Yakubu Gowon, Olusegun Obasanjo, and Muhammadu Buhari.
Democracy and Civil Rule: Understand the return to civilian rule in 1999 with the election of Olusegun Obasanjo as president, and how Nigeria’s democratic system developed.

Knowing Nigeria’s post-independence history is important for understanding the country’s political development.

5. African History in the 20th Century

JAMB History also includes African history, particularly the political and social changes in the 20th century. Focus on:

The Impact of World Wars: Learn how the First and Second World Wars affected African countries, especially in terms of independence movements and economic changes.
Independence Movements in Africa: Study the independence struggles in countries like Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and Algeria. Understand the role of leaders like Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta, and Nelson Mandela.
Pan-Africanism: Learn about the Pan-African movement and its impact on African unity and the fight against colonialism and apartheid.

This area helps you understand the broader picture of African history and its relation to Nigeria.

6. World History

In addition to Nigerian and African history, you also need to study world history, particularly key events that affected Nigeria and Africa. Focus on:

The Industrial Revolution: Learn about the changes in industry, technology, and society that began in Europe and spread around the world, influencing colonies like Nigeria.
The Cold War: Study the political tension between the United States and the Soviet Union after World War II, and how this affected Africa and Nigeria.
Decolonization: Understand how many African nations gained independence from European powers in the mid-20th century, including the role of the United Nations in promoting decolonization.

World history topics help provide context to African and Nigerian history, especially in the global political landscape.

Tips for Preparing for JAMB History in 2025/2026

Here are some tips to help you study effectively for JAMB History:

1. Read Widely

History involves learning many facts, dates, and events. Make sure you read widely, including textbooks, class notes, and online resources, to have a full understanding of the topics.

2. Make a Timeline

History is all about understanding when events happened. Create a timeline for each topic you study to remember important dates and the order of events.

3. Understand Key Figures and Their Contributions

Know the key figures in Nigerian, African, and world history, as many questions are based on their contributions. Make sure you understand the roles they played in important historical events.

4. Use Past Questions

Practicing with past JAMB History questions will help you understand the format of the exam and how questions are asked. It will also help you see the most common topics.

5. Study with Friends or Join Study Groups

Join a study group where you can discuss hard topics with others. Talking through historical events and their effect can help you understand them better.

6. Focus on Cause and Effect

Many historical events are linked by cause and effect. When studying, think about what caused an event and what happened as a result. This will help you understand the connections between events and improve your ability to answer questions.

Conclusion

To succeed in JAMB History in 2025/2026, you need to focus on the key areas like pre-colonial African history, colonialism, the struggle for independence, post-independence Nigeria, African history in the 20th century, and world history. By understanding these topics and preparing very well, you can perform well in the exam. Use past questions, study regularly, and review key words and events to ensure you are ready for the exam. Good luck with your JAMB History preparation!