History is more than just dates and events — it's about understanding how the past shapes our present. For students sitting for the NECO (National Examinations Council) History Exam, thorough preparation is key. Many questions in the NECO History exam are drawn from highly repeated topics, making it crucial to focus on these areas while studying.
This blog provides a complete list of frequently tested History topics along with sample past questions to help you succeed in your 2025/2026 NECO exam.
Full List of Highly Repeated Topics in NECO History Exam
1. Early Civilizations in Africa
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Nok Culture
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Ife and Benin Civilizations
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Ancient Egypt and Nubia
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The Kanem-Bornu Empire
Sample Question:
Discuss the contributions of the Nok culture to Nigerian history.
2. Trans-Saharan Trade
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Routes and items traded
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Role of camels
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Economic and cultural impact
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Influence on Islam in West Africa
Sample Question:
Explain how the Trans-Saharan trade influenced the spread of Islam in West Africa.
3. The Jihad of Usman Dan Fodio
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Causes and objectives
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Stages of the jihad
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Consequences of the jihad
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Impact on Northern Nigeria
Sample Question:
Examine the major outcomes of Usman Dan Fodio’s jihad.
4. Pre-Colonial Nigerian Societies
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Yoruba political system (Oyo Empire)
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Hausa/Fulani emirate system
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Igbo political system (acephalous)
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Tiv and Ijaw societies
Sample Question:
Compare the political systems of the Yoruba and the Igbo before colonial rule.
5. European Exploration and the Slave Trade
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Causes of the slave trade
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Impact on African societies
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Abolition and resistance movements
Sample Question:
What were the economic and social effects of the trans-Atlantic slave trade on West Africa?
6. Colonial Rule in Nigeria
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Indirect Rule and British Administration
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Resistance to colonialism
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Colonial economy
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Amalgamation of 1914
Sample Question:
Assess the success of the British policy of indirect rule in Nigeria.
7. Nigerian Nationalism and Independence
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Early nationalist movements
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Role of Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello
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Constitutional developments
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Independence in 1960
Sample Question:
Describe the contributions of Nnamdi Azikiwe to Nigerian nationalism.
8. Nigeria in the Post-Independence Era
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First Republic and military coups
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Civil War (1967–1970)
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Return to civilian rule
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Challenges of nation-building
Sample Question:
What were the causes and consequences of the Nigerian Civil War?
9. African Nationalist Movements
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Struggles in Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa
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Key leaders: Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta, Nelson Mandela
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Independence and post-independence challenges
Sample Question:
Discuss the role of Kwame Nkrumah in Ghana’s fight for independence.
10. International Organizations and Africa
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United Nations (UN)
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African Union (AU)
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ECOWAS
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Their roles in conflict resolution and development
Sample Question:
Explain the contributions of ECOWAS to peace and security in West Africa.
Sample NECO History Objective Questions
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The Nok culture is best known for:
A. Bronze casting
B. Stone tools
C. Terracotta sculptures
D. Pyramids
Answer: C -
The 1914 amalgamation of Nigeria was carried out by:
A. Lord Bourdillon
B. Lord Lugard
C. Sir Macpherson
D. Dr. Azikiwe
Answer: B -
The Berlin Conference of 1884–1885 was important because it:
A. Abolished the slave trade
B. Created African empires
C. Shared Africa among European powers
D. United African states
Answer: C -
The first military coup in Nigeria occurred in:
A. 1966
B. 1967
C. 1975
D. 1983
Answer: A -
The Oyo Empire was known for its:
A. Caliphate
B. Acephalous system
C. Strong military cavalry
D. Islamic reforms
Answer: C
Top Study Tips for NECO History Exam
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Focus on themes and not just dates.
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Use timelines to understand event sequences.
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Revise past questions consistently.
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Practice essay writing — NECO loves detailed explanations.
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Read widely using NECO-approved History textbooks.
FAQ Section
Q1: How many papers are there in NECO History?
There are two papers — Paper I (Objective) and Paper II (Essay/Structured Questions).
Q2: Are pre-colonial topics still relevant in the 2025 NECO exam?
Yes, questions from pre-colonial Nigerian societies are frequently asked.
Q3: Do I need to memorize dates?
Yes, especially for major events like independence, coups, and important treaties.
Q4: Can I pass NECO History without studying past questions?
It's not advisable. Past questions reveal patterns and help with preparation.
Q5: Which textbook is best for NECO History?
Recommended: Comprehensive Government and History Textbooks by Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).
Conclusion
The NECO History Exam requires both factual knowledge and critical thinking. By focusing on the highly repeated topics listed in this guide and practicing with past questions, you’ll be well on your way to a top grade.
Don’t cram—understand! History is a story—know it, connect it, and tell it well in your exam.
