The JAMB Government syllabus is structured to assess a candidate's understanding of the principles of government, political institutions, constitutional development, and major events in Nigerian and international politics. If you're aiming for a high score in Government, this guide will help you focus on what's most important.
Objectives of the JAMB Government Syllabus
Candidates should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the structure and functions of government.
- Analyze constitutional developments and political ideologies.
- Understand Nigeria’s political evolution and international relations.
- Identify the roles of regional and international organizations.
Core Topics in JAMB Government Syllabus (2025/2026)
1. Basic Concepts in Government
- Meaning and features of government
- Functions of government
- Power, authority, legitimacy, sovereignty
- Types and forms of government (monarchy, republicanism, democracy, etc.)
- Political ideologies (capitalism, socialism, communism, fascism)
2. Political Theories and Thought
- Political thinkers (Plato, Aristotle, Rousseau, Locke, Hobbes, Karl Marx)
- Rule of law and separation of powers
- Constitutionalism
3. Constitution and Constitutional Development
- Meaning, features, and types of constitutions
- Merits and demerits of written/unwritten, flexible/rigid constitutions
- Nigeria's constitutional development (from 1922 to date)
4. Organs and Structures of Government
- Legislature, Executive, Judiciary (functions, relationships)
- Separation of powers and checks and balances
- Political parties and pressure groups
- Civil service and public corporations
5. Political Processes
- Electoral systems and processes
- Political participation
- Electoral bodies (INEC)
- Types of elections and voting
6. Nigerian Political System
- Pre-colonial administration in Nigeria
- Colonial administration and indirect rule
- Nationalist movements and independence
- First, Second, Third, and Fourth Republics
- Military rule and its impact
7. Nigerian Foreign Policy
- Principles and objectives
- Nigeria’s role in international organizations (UN, AU, ECOWAS, OPEC)
8. Comparative Government
- Comparison of presidential and parliamentary systems
- Unitary, federal, and confederal systems
- Governments of selected countries (UK, USA, France, Ghana)
9. International Relations and Organizations
- Meaning and purpose of international relations
- International organizations (UN, AU, ECOWAS, Commonwealth)
- Contemporary global issues (terrorism, global warming, refugee crises)
Recommended Study Materials
- JAMB past questions and answers in Government
- “Comprehensive Government for Senior Secondary Schools” by J.U. Anyaele
- JAMB CBT practice apps
- Study guides with historical charts and political timelines
Expert Exam Tips for Government UTME
- Know the Timeline: Understand Nigeria’s political development from colonial rule to the current democratic dispensation.
- Master Definitions and Concepts: Many questions test basic definitions and distinctions.
- Review Past Questions: JAMB frequently repeats concepts and formats.
- Study Comparative Politics: Learn the differences between presidential and parliamentary systems.
- Don’t Cram – Understand: Focus on understanding, not just memorization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many questions are in JAMB Government?
A: You will answer 40 multiple-choice questions.
Q2: Is Government a compulsory subject in JAMB?
A: It is not compulsory for all candidates, but it's required for courses like Political Science, Law, International Relations, and Public Administration.
Q3: Are there essay questions in JAMB Government?
A: No. The exam format is strictly multiple choice (objectives).
Conclusion
The official JAMB Government syllabus for 2025/2026 is your roadmap to success in the UTME. With focused reading on constitutional history, political theories, Nigerian governance, and international relations, you can master the subject and secure excellent results. Stick to the syllabus, revise past questions, and stay consistent with your preparation.
