Chances of passing higher in UTME Chemistry is lower when studying for the exams, flipping through random notes, unapproved materials than when you are using the JAMB recommended textbooks for Chemistry 2026/2027 which are now available here for you to read about.
Scoring high will require studying materials that comprises of JAMB’s style of questions and break down each concept in a structured, exam-focused way, and it happens that the official JAMB-recommended textbooks do these through their explanation the fundamentals of chemical reactions, equations, calculations, organic chemistry, periodicity, and practical work.
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JAMB 2026 Recommended Textbooks for Chemistry
Below is the updated list from the current JAMB Chemistry syllabus with each entry including the title, authors, and a simple description of what the textbook covers.
1. New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools (4th Edition)
- Author: Ababio O. Y. (2009)
- Description: A widely used text that simplifies abstract concepts in physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry. It includes worked examples, exercises, and clear diagrams that support self-study.
2. Senior Secondary Chemistry (Books 1–3)
- Authors: Bajah S.T., Teibo B.O., Onwu G., & Obikwere A. (1999–2000)
- Description: A series covering the full Chemistry curriculum with easy explanations, practice questions, and illustrations suitable for long-term revision.
3. Understanding Chemistry for Schools and Colleges (Revised Edition)
- Author: Ojokuku G. O. (2012)
- Description: Breaks down core Chemistry principles using step-by-step explanations which makes it ideal for students who want a slower, more detailed approach to understanding chemical processes.
4. Essential Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools (2nd Edition)
- Author: Odesina I. A. (2008)
- Description: Offers simplified notes and quick-to-grasp definitions, making it perfect for fast revision while covering calculations, organic chemistry, periodic table trends, and basic practicals.
5. Countdown to WASSCE/SSCE, NECO, JME Chemistry
- Authors: Uche I.O., Adenuga I.J., & Iwuagwu S.L. (2003)
- Description: A revision-focused textbook with summaries, solved examples, and exam-style questions to help strengthen speed and accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need all the JAMB-recommended Chemistry textbooks?
No, two well-selected books combined with past questions are usually enough, but using more can improve your depth of understanding.
Which Chemistry textbook is best for beginners?
Essential Chemistry by Odesina is very student-friendly and great for building a foundation before moving to more advanced books.
Is Ababio’s New School Chemistry still useful for UTME?
Yes, it is one of the best resources for JAMB candidates because it aligns closely with the exam’s style.
Are the textbooks listed here from the official JAMB syllabus?
Yes. Every book included appears in the current JAMB Chemistry syllabus.
Where can I get PDF versions of these Chemistry textbooks?
Some publishers offer digital copies but always ensure you’re using legal and approved sources.
Do these books include practical Chemistry content?
Yes. Most of them cover practicals, apparatus, chemical tests, and simple experiments needed for UTME and post-UTME.
Which book is best for solving Chemistry calculations?
Ababio and Countdown Chemistry contain numerous worked examples for stoichiometry, molar calculations, gas laws, and titration.
Can I rely only on school notes instead of these textbooks?
School notes help, but the recommended books provide more complete explanations that JAMB questions are based on.
Last Updated on January 21, 2026 by Ola Funmilayo
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