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Ikiodiete George
- 3 Min Read
Waec | Gce History Syllabus + Success Tips (2025/2026)
History is an important subject for art students writing WAEC or GCE exams. It teaches us about the past, helping us understand the present and prepare for the future. Studying History not only helps you pass exams but also improves your general knowledge and analytical skills. Below is the full WAEC and GCE History syllabus for 2025/2026, along with success tips, FAQs, and exam guidance to help you excel.
WAEC | GCE History Syllabus (2025/2026)
The History syllabus covers African history, Nigerian history, world civilizations, and international relations. Study the topics below to prepare fully.
1. Early History of Nigeria
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| Origin of Nigerian Peoples | Migration, settlement patterns, historical myths |
| Early Centres of Civilization | Nok culture, Igbo-Ukwu, Benin Kingdom, Yoruba States |
| Major Empires | Kanem-Bornu, Hausa States, Oyo Empire, Benin Kingdom |
| Pre-colonial Economy | Trade, agriculture, crafts, internal trade networks |
2. Nigerian Contact with Europeans
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade | Causes, effects, abolition |
| Missionary Activities | Impact on education, religion, and politics |
| Legitimate Commerce | Palm oil trade, European trading companies |
| Colonial Rule in Nigeria | Methods of colonization, indirect rule, impact |
| Resistance to Colonial Rule | Key Nigerian resistors and anti-colonial movements |
3. Nigerian Nationalist Movements and Independence
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| Nationalist Movements | Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo |
| Constitutional Developments | Clifford, Richards, Macpherson constitutions |
| Independence Struggle | Political parties, constitutional conferences |
4. Post-Independence Nigeria
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| First Republic | Challenges, military coups |
| Nigerian Civil War | Causes, events, consequences |
| Military and Civilian Rule | Major leaders and political transitions |
| Nigeria’s Role in Africa | Peacekeeping, ECOWAS involvement, foreign policy |
5. Africa and the Wider World
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| Ancient African Civilizations | Mali Empire, Songhai Empire, Carthage, Egypt |
| European Partition of Africa | Scramble for Africa, Berlin Conference |
| African Resistance Movements | Notable leaders and movements |
| OAU and African Unity | Formation, objectives, and achievements |
6. Major World Events
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| First and Second World Wars | Causes, events, and effects |
| United Nations | Formation, objectives, roles in world peace |
| Cold War | Causes, major events, global impact |
| Human Rights Movements | Origin, development, and importance |
WAEC | GCE History Exam Format
| Paper | Content | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 50 Objective Questions | 1 Hour |
| Paper 2 | 5 Essay Questions (Answer All) | 2 Hours |
Top Success Tips for WAEC | GCE History Exam
| Tip | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Focus on Nigerian History | It forms a large part of the questions |
| Master Dates and Events | Many questions focus on chronological events |
| Study Causes and Effects | Examiners love asking cause-and-effect questions |
| Practice Past Questions | Learn the pattern and repeated questions |
| Use Subheadings in Essays | Improves clarity and organization in answers |
| Remember Key Figures | Important leaders and activists must be memorized |
| Use Recommended Textbooks | Like Comprehensive History of Nigeria |
| Study African Civilizations | Questions on empires and kingdoms are common |
| Manage Time Well in Exams | Avoid spending too much time on one essay |
| Avoid Cramming | Understand the stories behind events |
FAQs About WAEC | GCE History Exam
1. How many papers are in WAEC History?
Two: Paper 1 (Objective) and Paper 2 (Essay/Theory).
2. Which textbook is recommended for WAEC History?
Comprehensive History of Nigeria and Essential History for Senior Secondary Schools.
3. Which topics repeat often in WAEC History?
Nigerian nationalism, trans-Atlantic slave trade, colonial rule, civil war, and African empires.
4. How do I answer essay questions in History?
Use headings, write chronological points, and include causes and effects where necessary.
5. Is African history compulsory?
Yes. WAEC covers both Nigerian and general African history.
Conclusion
History is a storytelling subject — understanding it as a story of past human activities will help you pass easily. Focus on Nigerian and African history, learn dates, leaders, and major global events. Use past questions for practice and always structure your essays properly.
With dedication and a smart reading plan, you can score an A1 in WAEC or GCE History.
