JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Economics 2025/2026

Economics is one of the core subjects that many Nigerian candidates prepare for during the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The study of Economics deals with how individuals, firms, and governments allocate scarce resources to meet various needs and wants. Topics like demand and supply, market structures, national income, inflation, unemployment, economic growth, and international trade are essential components of the subject.

A solid understanding of Economics is crucial for candidates aiming to excel in the UTME. One of the best ways to achieve this is by using the JAMB-recommended textbooks alongside the official syllabus. The syllabus outlines the topics and subtopics that candidates are expected to cover, while the recommended textbooks provide the in-depth knowledge, explanations, and practice questions necessary to master these topics.

In this comprehensive guide, we will outline the JAMB-recommended Economics textbooks for 2025/2026 and explain why using these materials is key to your UTME success.

Importance of JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Economics

The JAMB-recommended textbooks for Economics are crucial for candidates because they are designed to meet specific needs that improve exam preparedness. Here are several reasons why these textbooks should be prioritized:

1. Comprehensive Coverage of the Syllabus

The JAMB syllabus for Economics is vast, covering areas such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, development economics, and international trade. The recommended textbooks provide detailed coverage of all topics and sub-topics in the syllabus. These books offer explanations of key economic concepts, definitions, and real-world applications. By following these textbooks, candidates can ensure they study the exact material required by JAMB, without missing any important topics.

2. Inclusion of Practice Questions and Past UTME Questions

Past questions are vital for exam preparation because they give candidates insight into the structure and format of the UTME. The recommended textbooks often include questions from previous UTME exams, which allows candidates to:

• Familiarize themselves with the types of questions that may appear on the exam.
• Practice answering exam-style questions within a time limit, improving their speed and accuracy.
• Identify areas where they are weak and focus their studies on those topics.

Some textbooks also include practice exercises and mock tests at the end of each chapter, which help reinforce understanding and build exam confidence.

3. Effective Study Tips and Exam Strategies

The JAMB Economics exam requires more than just theoretical knowledge. It also requires critical thinking and the ability to apply economic principles to real-life scenarios. Many of the recommended textbooks provide study tips, exam strategies, and guidance on how to avoid common mistakes. These tips help candidates:

• Manage time effectively during the exam.
• Eliminate distractors (incorrect answers) and focus on the best options when faced with multiple-choice questions.
• Understand how to approach calculations and analytical questions, which are common in the Economics exam.

4. Clarity and Simplicity in Explanation

Economics can be a complex subject for many students, especially when it involves technical concepts such as elasticity of demand, balance of payments, and fiscal policies. The JAMB-recommended textbooks simplify these difficult concepts with step-by-step explanations, real-life examples, and clear diagrams. This makes it easier for candidates to grasp tough topics and retain the information for longer.

List of JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Economics 2025/2026

Below is a carefully selected list of JAMB-recommended textbooks for Economics. These textbooks align with the 2025/2026 UTME syllabus and are authored by renowned economists and education professionals:

1. Aderinto, A.A et al (1996) – Economics: Exam Focus, Ibadan: University Press Plc.

• A concise guide that covers all JAMB topics and includes practice questions and exam tips.

1. Black, J. (1997) – Oxford Dictionary of Economics, Oxford: Oxford University Press.

• Provides clear definitions of economic terms and concepts, making it an essential reference book for students.

1. Eyiyere, D.O. (1980) – Economics Made Easy, Benin City: Quality Publishers Ltd.

• Simplifies complex topics and provides a beginner-friendly approach to studying Economics.

1. Fajana, F. et al (1999) – Countdown to SSCE/JME Economics, Ibadan: Evans.

• Focuses on key areas of the syllabus with exam-oriented content.

1. Falodun, A.B. et al (1997) – Round-up Economics, Lagos: Longman.

• Offers comprehensive coverage of Economics topics, with a focus on revision.

1. Koutsoyiannis, A. (1979) – Modern Microeconomics, London: Macmillan.

• A detailed look into microeconomic principles and theories, ideal for advanced learners.

1. Lipsey, R.G. (1997) – An Introduction to Positive Economics, Oxford: Oxford University Press.

• Covers both theoretical and applied aspects of Economics in a clear, structured manner.

1. Samuelson, P. & Nordhaus, W. (1989) – Economics, Singapore: McGraw-Hill.

• This globally recognized textbook is known for its in-depth analysis of both micro and macroeconomic topics.

1. Udu E. & Agu G.A. (2005) – New System Economics: A Senior Secondary Course, Ibadan: Africana FIRST Publishers Ltd.

• Tailored for Nigerian secondary school students, this textbook aligns well with the JAMB syllabus.

1. Wannacott & Wannacott (1979) – Economics, New York: McGraw-Hill.
   • A widely recommended textbook for understanding fundamental economic principles.
2. Brownson-Oton, Richard (2010) – What is Micro-Economics?, Niky Printing and Publishing Coy.
   • Explores key microeconomic topics in an easy-to-understand format.
3. Brownson-Oton, Richard (2010) – What is Macro-Economics?, Niky Printing and Publishing Coy.
   • Focuses on the larger scale of economic activities, including national income, inflation, and economic growth.

How to Use the Recommended Textbooks Effectively

Using these textbooks effectively requires a strategic approach:

1. Start Early: Begin reading and summarizing key points from each chapter as early as possible. Don’t wait until exam time to start studying.
2. Follow the Syllabus: Cross-check each textbook against the JAMB Economics syllabus to ensure you’re covering all required topics.
3. Practice Regularly: Work through the exercises and past questions provided in these books. Timed practice will improve both speed and accuracy.
4. Create Study Notes: Write summary notes or create mind maps to aid your revision. This will help reinforce the information.
5. Join Study Groups: Discussing topics with peers can help clarify difficult concepts and reinforce your understanding.

Conclusion

Economics is a critical subject in the UTME, and achieving success requires thorough preparation. The JAMB-recommended textbooks for Economics 2025/2026 provide candidates with comprehensive coverage of the syllabus, exam-style questions, and effective study strategies. By utilizing these resources, candidates can enhance their knowledge, boost their confidence, and maximize their chances of performing well in the UTME.

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