The NECO Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) syllabus for 2025 is designed to test students’ understanding of Islamic beliefs, practices, ethics, and history. It emphasizes Qur’anic interpretation, Hadith studies, Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), and Tawheed (monotheism). This guide outlines everything candidates need to know to pass the NECO IRS exam confidently.
Objectives of the NECO IRS Syllabus
The syllabus aims to:
- Develop deep understanding of the teachings of Islam as found in the Qur’an and Hadith.
- Promote Islamic values and practices.
- Encourage knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence and its application in daily life.
- Enable students to understand and appreciate Islamic history and culture.
- Prepare students for higher Islamic studies.
NECO IRS Exam Structure
The NECO IRS exam consists of two papers:
Paper I: Objective (Multiple Choice)
- 50 questions covering all areas of the syllabus.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Carries 40% of the total marks.
Paper II: Essay (Theory)
- Structured questions divided into sections:
- Section A: Qur’an and Hadith
- Section B: Tawheed and Fiqh
- Section C: Islamic History and Morality
- Candidates must answer questions from each section.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Carries 60% of the total marks.
NECO IRS Syllabus Topics (2025)
1. Qur’an Studies
- Revelation of the Qur’an (Wahy)
- Compilation of the Qur’an
- Importance and usage of the Qur’an in daily life
- Selected Surahs:
- Surah Al-Fatiha
- Surah Al-Ikhlas
- Surah Al-Kafirun
- Surah Al-Nas
- Surah Al-Falaq
- Surah Al-Asr
- Surah Al-Takathur
- Surah Al-Humazah
- Moral lessons from the Surahs
2. Hadith Studies
- Definition and sources of Hadith
- Difference between Hadith and Qur’an
- Compilation of Hadith
- The six authentic collections (Sahih Sittah)
- Selected Hadith and moral lessons:
- Truthfulness
- Patience
- Brotherhood
- Kindness to parents
- Trustworthiness
3. Tawheed (Islamic Monotheism)
- Oneness of Allah (Tawheed Ar-Rububiyyah, Al-Uluhiyyah, and Al-Asma wa Sifat)
- Shirk (associating partners with Allah)
- Belief in angels, books, prophets, the Last Day, and destiny
- Impact of Tawheed on Muslims’ lives
4. Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)
- The five pillars of Islam
- Ablution (Wudu), Tayammum, and Ghusl
- Rules and conditions of Salat (prayer), Zakat, Sawm (fasting), and Hajj
- Islamic marriage and divorce
- Inheritance and punishment in Islam
5. Islamic History
- The life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW):
- Birth and early life
- Prophethood
- Migration to Medina
- Battles (Badr, Uhud, Khandaq)
- The four Rightly Guided Caliphs (Khulafa’u Rashidun)
- Spread of Islam in West Africa
- Jihad: Meaning and types (not terrorism)
6. Islamic Ethics and Morality
- Respect for parents and elders
- Cleanliness
- Justice and fairness
- Truthfulness
- Modesty and humility
- Forgiveness and tolerance
- Avoiding gossip, envy, and slander
Exam Tips for NECO IRS 2025
- Study the Qur’anic Surahs by Heart
Memorize and understand the meanings of the required Surahs. Be able to explain their moral lessons. - Know the Difference Between Qur’an and Hadith
Practice identifying which texts are Qur’anic verses and which are Hadith. - Understand Islamic Laws Practically
Focus on how Fiqh applies to daily Muslim life—especially the rules of Salat, Zakat, and fasting. - Use Past Questions
Practice with NECO IRS past papers to understand question trends and difficulty levels. - Draw Historical Timelines
Create a timeline of key Islamic events and Prophet Muhammad's life to make history easier to remember.
FAQs – NECO IRS Syllabus 2025
Q1: Is Hadith interpretation part of the NECO IRS exam?
A: Yes, students are expected to interpret selected Hadith and explain their relevance.
Q2: Will Arabic be required for NECO IRS?
A: Only short Surahs in Arabic with their English meaning and interpretation are needed. You don’t need advanced Arabic.
Q3: Can I use a translated Qur’an for preparation?
A: Yes, using a translated Qur’an helps you understand the meanings of the verses and their moral lessons.
Q4: What are the most important topics?
A: Focus on Tawheed, Fiqh (especially Salat and Zakat), Hadith interpretation, and selected Qur’anic Surahs.
Conclusion
The NECO IRS syllabus for 2025 covers core areas of Islamic faith, worship, history, and ethics. Mastering the selected Surahs, Hadith, Fiqh rules, and understanding key Islamic principles is essential to excel in the exam. With consistent study and application of the tips provided, you can achieve excellent results in NECO IRS.
