Are you searching for the JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Chemistry 2026/2027? If you are preparing for the 2026/2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), getting the right Chemistry textbooks and studying according to the official JAMB syllabus can make your preparation more organised and effective.
Chemistry is a major UTME subject for candidates seeking admission into courses such as Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy, Nursing, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Agriculture, Medical Laboratory Science and other science-related programmes.
However, simply buying several textbooks does not guarantee a high JAMB score. What matters is understanding the syllabus, studying the relevant topics, solving problems regularly and reviewing your mistakes.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), through its Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS), provides the official Chemistry syllabus and recommended texts. The current JAMB Chemistry syllabus lists five recommended textbooks for candidates preparing for the examination.
This article provides the JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Chemistry 2026/2027, their authors and publication details, important Chemistry topics to study, tips for choosing a textbook and an effective preparation strategy.
Important: Recommended textbooks are study resources. They do not guarantee the exact questions that JAMB will set. Candidates should always use the official JAMB syllabus as their primary guide.
JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Chemistry 2026/2027
According to the Chemistry syllabus published through JAMB IBASS, the following five textbooks are listed under Recommended Texts:
- New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools — O. Y. Ababio
- Senior Secondary Chemistry Books 1, 2 and 3 — S. T. Bajah, B. O. Teibo, G. Onwu and A. Obikwere
- Understanding Chemistry for Schools and Colleges — G. O. Ojokuku
- Essential Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools — I. A. Odesina
- Countdown to WASSCE/SSCE, NECO, JME Chemistry — I. O. Uche, I. J. Adenuga and S. L. Iwuagwu
These are the textbooks listed in the official JAMB Chemistry syllabus.
Complete List of JAMB Chemistry Recommended Textbooks 2026/2027
1. New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools
Author: O. Y. Ababio
Edition: Fourth Edition
Year: 2009
Publisher: Africana FIRST Publishers Limited, Onitsha
New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools is one of the textbooks listed in JAMB’s official Chemistry recommended-text section.
It can be useful as a general Chemistry textbook because candidates can use it to revise fundamental Chemistry concepts and prepare across different areas of the subject.
When studying with this textbook, compare each chapter with the current JAMB syllabus and prioritise topics that appear in the examination objectives.
2. Senior Secondary Chemistry Books 1, 2 and 3
Authors: S. T. Bajah, B. O. Teibo, G. Onwu and A. Obikwere
Book 1: 1999
Books 2 and 3: 2000
Publisher: Longman, Lagos
This three-book series is another recommended resource in the official JAMB Chemistry syllabus.
Because it covers Senior Secondary Chemistry across Books 1, 2 and 3, it can be useful for candidates who want to revise Chemistry progressively from foundational concepts to more advanced topics.
Candidates do not necessarily need to read every page. Use the JAMB syllabus to identify the relevant areas and study them systematically.
3. Understanding Chemistry for Schools and Colleges
Author: G. O. Ojokuku
Edition: Revised Edition
Year: 2012
Publisher: Press-On Chemresources, Zaria
This textbook is also included among JAMB’s recommended Chemistry texts.
It can be useful for candidates who want another explanation of Chemistry concepts, especially when a topic is difficult to understand from their main textbook.
A good approach is to use one comprehensive textbook as your main resource and consult supplementary books when you need clarification.
4. Essential Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools
Author: I. A. Odesina
Edition: Second Edition
Year: 2008
Publisher: Tonad Publishers Limited, Lagos
Essential Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools is another textbook listed in the official JAMB Chemistry syllabus.
Candidates can use it to revise senior-secondary Chemistry concepts and practise their understanding of the subject.
While studying, pay attention to definitions, chemical equations, calculations, properties of substances, reactions and practical applications.
5. Countdown to WASSCE/SSCE, NECO, JME Chemistry
Authors: I. O. Uche, I. J. Adenuga and S. L. Iwuagwu
Year: 2003
Publisher: Evans, Ibadan
This examination-focused book is also included in JAMB’s recommended-text list.
It can be useful for candidates who want additional practice after studying the underlying Chemistry concepts.
Use it alongside the official syllabus rather than relying entirely on practice questions.
JAMB Chemistry Syllabus 2026/2027
Knowing the recommended textbooks is only one part of your preparation.
The official JAMB Chemistry syllabus should be your roadmap.
The syllabus contains the areas and objectives candidates are expected to prepare for. JAMB provides its syllabus through the official IBASS platform.
Instead of reading Chemistry books randomly, use the syllabus as a checklist.
For example:
Topic → Study textbook → Make notes → Solve questions → Review mistakes
This method makes your preparation more organised.
Important JAMB Chemistry Topics to Study
Candidates should study the complete official syllabus rather than depending on predicted questions.
Some of the major Chemistry areas include:
- Separation techniques and purification
- Atomic structure
- Periodicity
- Chemical bonding
- Mole concept
- Stoichiometry
- Chemical reactions
- States of matter
- Acids, bases and salts
- Solubility
- Energy changes
- Rates of reaction
- Chemical equilibrium
- Redox reactions
- Electrochemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Chemistry of the environment
- Chemistry and industry
The exact topics and objectives should be checked against the current official syllabus before examination preparation.
1. Separation Techniques and Purification
Start by understanding how mixtures can be separated.
Study methods such as:
- Filtration
- Evaporation
- Crystallisation
- Sublimation
- Distillation
- Fractional distillation
- Decantation
- Chromatography
Understand the principle behind each method and know when it is appropriate.
2. Atomic Structure
Atomic structure is one of the foundations of Chemistry.
Study:
- Atoms
- Elements
- Protons
- Neutrons
- Electrons
- Atomic number
- Mass number
- Isotopes
- Electronic configuration
Make sure you understand the relationship between atomic number, mass number and the number of subatomic particles.
3. Periodic Table and Periodicity
Candidates should understand how elements are arranged in the periodic table.
Study:
- Groups
- Periods
- Metals
- Non-metals
- Periodic trends
- Valency
- Electronic configuration
- Properties of elements
Do not just memorise the periodic table. Understand the patterns in the properties of elements.
4. Chemical Bonding
Study the major types of chemical bonding.
These include:
- Ionic bonding
- Covalent bonding
- Metallic bonding
Also understand:
- Formation of ions
- Valency
- Electron sharing
- Electron transfer
- Properties of ionic compounds
- Properties of covalent compounds
Practise drawing simple structures where appropriate.
5. Mole Concept and Stoichiometry
The mole concept is one of the areas candidates should practise extensively.
Study:
- Relative atomic mass
- Relative molecular mass
- Mole
- Avogadro’s constant
- Molar mass
- Percentage composition
- Empirical formula
- Molecular formula
- Chemical equations
- Stoichiometric calculations
Do plenty of calculations.
Do not simply memorise the formulas. Understand what the quantities represent.
6. States of Matter
Study:
- Solids
- Liquids
- Gases
- Kinetic theory
- Changes of state
- Diffusion
- Brownian motion
- Gas laws
Understand the behaviour of particles in different states of matter.
7. Acids, Bases and Salts
This is an important area of Chemistry.
Study:
- Acids
- Bases
- Alkalis
- Indicators
- pH
- Neutralisation
- Properties of acids
- Properties of bases
- Preparation of salts
Practise identifying acidic and alkaline substances and understanding neutralisation reactions.
8. Solubility
Study:
- Soluble substances
- Insoluble substances
- Solubility curves
- Factors affecting solubility
- Saturated solutions
- Unsaturated solutions
- Crystallisation
Pay attention to how temperature affects the solubility of different substances.
9. Energy Changes
Candidates should understand the energy involved in chemical reactions.
Study:
- Exothermic reactions
- Endothermic reactions
- Heat changes
- Energy profiles
- Bond breaking
- Bond formation
Learn how energy changes relate to chemical reactions.
10. Rates of Chemical Reaction
Study the factors that affect reaction rates.
These include:
- Temperature
- Concentration
- Pressure
- Surface area
- Catalysts
- Nature of reactants
Understand why these factors affect the rate at which reactions occur.
11. Chemical Equilibrium
Study:
- Reversible reactions
- Dynamic equilibrium
- Factors affecting equilibrium
- Le Chatelier’s principle
- Equilibrium constants where applicable
Try to understand what happens when conditions such as temperature, concentration or pressure change.
12. Redox Reactions
Redox Chemistry is another important area.
Study:
- Oxidation
- Reduction
- Oxidising agents
- Reducing agents
- Oxidation numbers
- Electron transfer
Practise identifying what has been oxidised and what has been reduced in chemical equations.
13. Electrochemistry
Study:
- Electrolysis
- Electrolytes
- Electrodes
- Anode
- Cathode
- Electrochemical cells
- Applications of electrolysis
Make sure you understand the movement of ions and electrons during electrochemical processes.
14. Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry is an important part of JAMB Chemistry preparation.
Study:
- Hydrocarbons
- Alkanes
- Alkenes
- Alkynes
- Alcohols
- Carboxylic acids
- Esters
- Homologous series
- Functional groups
- Isomerism
- Polymerisation
Candidates should learn the general properties and reactions of important organic compounds.
15. Chemistry of the Environment
Study how chemical substances interact with the environment.
Important areas include:
- Air pollution
- Water pollution
- Soil pollution
- Greenhouse gases
- Acid rain
- Ozone layer
- Waste management
Understand the causes, effects and possible methods of reducing environmental pollution.
16. Chemistry and Industry
Candidates should understand the application of Chemistry in industries.
Study examples involving:
- Petroleum
- Fertilisers
- Cement
- Glass
- Soap and detergents
- Metals
- Chemical manufacturing
Pay attention to raw materials, processes and products where they appear in the syllabus.
How Many JAMB Chemistry Textbooks Should I Read?
You do not need to read all five recommended Chemistry textbooks from beginning to end.
A practical preparation strategy is to use:
One Main Chemistry Textbook
Choose one comprehensive textbook that explains the major topics clearly.
One Supplementary Textbook
Use another recommended book when you need a different explanation of a difficult topic.
One Practice Book
Use an examination-oriented resource for objective questions and revision.
The Official JAMB Syllabus
Use the syllabus to determine what you should study.
Past Questions
Use past questions to practise applying what you have learned.
This approach is more practical than trying to study five books simultaneously.
Best JAMB Chemistry Textbooks for Different Purposes
For General Chemistry
New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools is one of the official recommended resources and can be used as a broad study textbook.
For Senior Secondary Revision
Senior Secondary Chemistry Books 1, 2 and 3 can provide progressive coverage of Chemistry concepts.
For Additional Explanations
Understanding Chemistry for Schools and Colleges can be used as a supplementary reference.
For General Revision
Essential Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools can serve as another study resource.
For Examination Practice
Countdown to WASSCE/SSCE, NECO, JME Chemistry can be useful for additional examination preparation.
All five titles above are listed in the official JAMB Chemistry syllabus.
How to Prepare for JAMB Chemistry 2026/2027
1. Get the Official Syllabus
Before you begin serious preparation, obtain the current JAMB Chemistry syllabus.
The official IBASS platform provides JAMB’s e-syllabus resources.
2. Choose Your Main Textbook
Select a textbook that you understand.
Do not choose a book simply because another candidate recommends it.
3. Study Topic by Topic
Follow the syllabus instead of jumping randomly from one chapter to another.
4. Make Short Notes
Write down:
- Definitions
- Chemical equations
- Important reactions
- Formulae
- Properties
- Differences
- Examples
5. Practise Calculations
Chemistry contains numerical questions, so regular calculation practice is essential.
6. Practise Chemical Equations
Learn how to write and balance chemical equations where required.
7. Review Mistakes
Whenever you get a question wrong, find out why.
Do not simply check the answer and move on.
8. Revise Regularly
Create a revision schedule and revisit previously studied topics.
JAMB Chemistry Study Timetable
You can use the following 14-week plan as a starting point:
| Week | Main Focus |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Separation techniques and purification |
| Week 2 | Atomic structure and periodicity |
| Week 3 | Chemical bonding |
| Week 4 | Mole concept and stoichiometry |
| Week 5 | States of matter |
| Week 6 | Acids, bases, salts and solubility |
| Week 7 | Energy changes and rates of reaction |
| Week 8 | Chemical equilibrium |
| Week 9 | Redox reactions and electrochemistry |
| Week 10 | Organic Chemistry I |
| Week 11 | Organic Chemistry II |
| Week 12 | Environmental Chemistry |
| Week 13 | Industrial Chemistry |
| Week 14 | Past questions and full revision |
You can adjust the timetable depending on your available study time and examination schedule.
How to Score High in JAMB Chemistry
Understand Chemistry Instead of Memorising Everything
Chemistry contains facts that need to be remembered, but understanding the concepts makes memorisation easier.
Practise Numerical Questions
Spend time solving problems involving:
- Mole calculations
- Molar mass
- Percentage composition
- Stoichiometry
- Concentration
- Gas calculations
- Electrochemistry
Learn Important Chemical Reactions
Understand the reactants, products and conditions involved in important reactions.
Study the Periodic Table
Learn the arrangement and properties of important elements.
Practise Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry becomes easier when you understand homologous series and functional groups.
Use Past Questions
Practise questions after completing each topic.
Time Yourself
Occasionally practise questions under examination conditions.
Common Mistakes JAMB Chemistry Candidates Make
1. Memorising Without Understanding
Do not memorise chemical reactions without understanding what is happening.
2. Avoiding Calculations
Chemistry calculations should be practised regularly.
3. Ignoring Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry is an important part of Chemistry preparation.
4. Neglecting the Periodic Table
Understanding periodic trends can help with many Chemistry questions.
5. Studying Without the Syllabus
A textbook may contain more information than you actually need for UTME.
6. Relying Only on Past Questions
Past questions are useful but should not replace studying the syllabus.
7. Looking for “Sure Questions”
No textbook or study material can legitimately guarantee the exact questions that will appear in JAMB.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Has JAMB released recommended textbooks for Chemistry?
The official JAMB Chemistry syllabus available through IBASS contains a Recommended Texts section listing the textbooks candidates can use for preparation.
How many Chemistry textbooks are recommended by JAMB?
The current official Chemistry syllabus lists five recommended textbooks.
What is the best Chemistry textbook for JAMB?
There is no single textbook that guarantees success. A comprehensive Chemistry textbook combined with the official syllabus, regular practice and past questions is a strong preparation strategy.
Do I need to buy all five Chemistry textbooks?
No. You can select one comprehensive textbook as your main study resource and use other recommended books for additional explanations and practice.
Is Chemistry calculation important in JAMB?
Yes. Candidates should practise calculations involving topics such as mole concept, stoichiometry, concentration, gas laws and electrochemistry.
Should I study Organic Chemistry?
Yes. Organic Chemistry is an important area of Chemistry preparation and should not be ignored.
Should I study past questions?
Yes. Past questions can help you become familiar with objective-question formats and identify topics that require more practice. However, past questions should complement the syllabus rather than replace it.
Where can I check the official JAMB Chemistry syllabus?
You can check the official JAMB Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS). The platform provides access to JAMB’s e-syllabus and subject materials.
Conclusion
The JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Chemistry 2026/2027 are useful resources for candidates preparing for the UTME.
The official JAMB Chemistry syllabus currently lists five recommended textbooks:
- New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools — O. Y. Ababio
- Senior Secondary Chemistry Books 1, 2 and 3 — S. T. Bajah, B. O. Teibo, G. Onwu and A. Obikwere
- Understanding Chemistry for Schools and Colleges — G. O. Ojokuku
- Essential Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools — I. A. Odesina
- Countdown to WASSCE/SSCE, NECO, JME Chemistry — I. O. Uche, I. J. Adenuga and S. L. Iwuagwu
These titles are listed in the official JAMB Chemistry syllabus.
Candidates do not have to read all five textbooks from cover to cover. A more practical approach is to select a comprehensive main textbook, follow the official syllabus, use supplementary materials when necessary and practise questions regularly.
Important areas to prepare include atomic structure, periodicity, chemical bonding, mole concept, stoichiometry, states of matter, acids and bases, solubility, energy changes, rates of reaction, equilibrium, redox reactions, electrochemistry, organic Chemistry, environmental Chemistry and industrial Chemistry.
Remember that no recommended textbook can guarantee the exact questions that will appear in JAMB. Candidates should avoid relying on claims about “sure questions” and instead focus on understanding the syllabus and practising extensively.
For the most accurate information, always check the official JAMB IBASS platform and the current Chemistry syllabus before finalising your preparation.
With consistent study, proper revision, numerical practice and the right use of recommended textbooks, candidates can prepare more effectively for JAMB Chemistry 2026/2027.
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