Sitting for Islamic Studies in the JAMB 2026/2027 UTME demands more than casual reading; it requires textbooks that present Aqeedah, Fiqh, Hadith, Qur’anic Studies, Sirah, Islamic history, and daily Islamic practices exactly the way the JAMB syllabus frames them, and this is exactly where JAMB recommended textbooks for Islamic Studies 2026/2027 comes in.
Since the subject covers both spiritual foundations and historical depth, relying on unofficial materials often leaves gaps and confusion when answering UTME questions, hence working with JAMB-recommended textbooks ensures that your study aligns with the topics the exam consistently tests, from Qur’anic interpretation and Hadith application to Islamic jurisprudence and West African Islamic development.
Recommended Post: JAMB 2026/2027 Syllabus for Islamic Studies is Out | Download PDF
JAMB 2026/2027 Recommended Islamic Studies Textbooks
1. Studies in Islam Series Book 3
- Author(s): Abdul, M.O.A. (1976)
- Description: Explores foundational Islamic teachings, moral values, and practical religious instructions for senior learners.
2. Studies in Islam Series Book 2
- Author(s): Abdul, M.O.A. (1982)
- Description: Covers core Islamic beliefs, worship, and personal conduct, following the structured approach of the series.
3. The Classical Caliphate
- Author(s): Abdul, M.O.A. (1988)
- Description: Examines the leadership, governance, and historical impact of the early caliphs in Islam.
4. The Ink of the Scholar
- Author(s): Abdulrahman & Canham (n.d.)
- Description: Highlights key contributions of Islamic scholars through history, emphasizing learning and scholarship.
5. The Holy Qur’an: Text, Translation and Commentary
- Author(s): Ali, A.Y. (1975)
- Description: Presents Qur’anic Arabic text with English translation and extensive commentary for deeper understanding.
6. The Religion of Islam
- Author(s): Ali, M.M. (n.d.)
- Description: Provides an introductory but detailed study of Islamic principles, worship, and social structure.
6. Shariah: The Islamic Law
- Author(s): Doi, A. R. I. (1997)
- Description: Offers a comprehensive explanation of Islamic law, its sources, application, and relevance.
7. The Life of Muhammad (SAW)
- Author(s): Hay Lal, M. (1982)
- Description: Chronicles the life, character, and mission of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with historical clarity.
8. Methodology of Primary Islamic Studies
- Author(s): Lemu, A. (1992)
- Description: Provides structured techniques for studying Islamic subjects effectively at foundational levels.
9. Islamic Studies for SSS, Book 1
- Author(s): Lemu, A. (1993)
- Description: Introduces Islamic principles, Qur’anic lessons, and Hadith for senior secondary learners.
10. Islamic Studies for SSS (Books)
- Author(s): Lemu, A. (1993)
- Description: A series covering Islamic ethics, worship, jurisprudence, and Islamic history in a simple style.
11. al-Burhanu fi Tajwidil Qur’an
- Author(s): Muhammad, S. Q. (2010)
- Description: Focuses on tajwid rules, pronunciation, and proper recitation of the Qur’an.
12. A Dictionary of Peoples and Places in the Qur’an
- Author(s): Opeloye, M.O. (1996)
- Description: Explains people, locations, and historical references found throughout the Qur’an.
13. Usool at-Tafseer
- Author(s): Philips, A. A. B. (1997)
- Description: Guides readers through the principles of Qur’anic interpretation and understanding.
14. Al-Iziyyah for the English Audience
- Author(s): Quadri, Y.A. et al (1990)
- Description: Breaks down Islamic jurisprudence concepts in simplified English for students.
15. Islamic History
- Author(s): Rahim, A. (1992)
- Description: Covers major events, personalities, and periods in Islamic civilization.
16. Islamic Religious Knowledge for WASC Book 1
- Author(s): Sambo, M.B. et al (1984)
- Description: Explains basic Islamic doctrines, Qur’anic studies, Hadith, and religious duties for classroom learning.
17. Islamic Religious Knowledge for WASC Book 3
- Author(s): Sambo, M.B. et al (1984)
- Description: Builds on Book 1 with advanced discussions on Islamic history, ethics, and worship.
18. A History of Islam in West Africa
- Author(s): Trimingham, J.S. (1993)
- Description: Examines the spread of Islam in West Africa and its cultural and political influence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need all the textbooks listed to prepare for JAMB Islamic Studies?
No. Most students combine two to four books depending on their strengths and weak areas.
Which textbook helps most with Qur’anic Studies?
The Holy Qur’an: Text, Translation and Commentary by A.Y. Ali and Usool at-Tafseer by Philips are excellent choices.
Which books cover Islamic history extensively?
A History of Islam in West Africa and Islamic History provide strong historical coverage.
What book can I use for tajwid practice?
al-Burhanu fi tajwidil Qur’an is designed specifically for tajwid rules and accurate recitation.
Is the Studies in Islam Series enough for UTME preparation?
It covers foundational areas well but works best when combined with at least one history or tafseer-focused text.
Can beginners use these textbooks effectively?
Yes. Many books, especially those by Lemu and Abdul, are written in simple and structured formats.
Do these textbooks follow the current JAMB syllabus?
Yes, they match the topics, themes, and learning outcomes expected in the UTME.
Should I still use past questions after reading these books?
Yes. Past questions help you understand question style, timing, and common topic patterns.
Last Updated on January 21, 2026 by Ola Funmilayo
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