JAMB Set Poems - African Poetry

This collection brings together twelve African poems prescribed by JAMB for the Literature In English examination (2022-2026 syllabus cycle). The poets span generations and geographies: from the Senegalese Negritude pioneer Leopold Sedar Senghor and Angolan liberation poet Agostinho Neto to contemporary West African voices such as Niyi Osundare, Wole Soyinka, Gabriel Okara, Syl Cheney-Coker, and Elizabeth Kamara.

The poems address enduring African concerns: cultural identity and the celebration of African beauty (Black Woman), political oppression and complicity (Not My Business, The Leader and the Led), the loss of authenticity in modern life (Once Upon a Time, New Tongue), the legacy of colonialism and slavery (The Grieved Lands, The Breasts of the Sea), the resilience of African women (Song of the Women of My Land), and the passage of time and ageing (Hearty Garlands). Together they offer a rich tapestry of African literary expression, blending oral tradition, protest literature, lyrical celebration, and philosophical reflection.

Candidates should be able to analyse each poem's subject matter, tone, imagery, and literary devices, compare thematic concerns across poems, and write structured essays linking poetic technique to meaning.