Books have a way of opening our eyes to real-life struggles while still inspiring us with stories of hope and resilience. Kabir Alabi Garba’s novel, The Lekki Headmaster, is one of such books. It tells the moving story of Mr. Adewale Bepo, a devoted teacher and principal of Stardom Schools in Lekki, Lagos. Through his life, we see the joys and challenges of being an educator in Nigeria, as well as the difficult choices many people face when deciding whether to stay in their country or move abroad.

I will also write down the settings, themes, and language/style of this novel, and why they make the story so powerful.

Settings in the Novel

The main setting of the story is Stardom Schools in Lekki, Lagos. This is where most of the action happens and where Mr. Bepo earns his nickname, “The Lekki Headmaster.” The school represents both his passion and his struggles a place where he gives his all but also faces challenges like demanding parents, financial pressure, and unfair treatment of teachers.

The novel also takes us back to Beesway Group of School, where Bepo once worked. Here, he clashed with the management over corrupt practices, even witnessing shocking events like a ritual involving a cow. This part of the setting shows us how much corruption and unethical behaviour can affect the education sector.

Another key setting is the Black Heritage Museum, where Bepo reflects on Nigeria’s painful history of slavery and colonialism. This visit makes him compare the past with today’s “Japa” trend of mass migration.

Although we don’t see much of it directly, the UK plays a big role in the story. It is where Bepo’s wife and children already live, and it symbolizes the dream of a “better life” abroad that many Nigerians chase.

Themes in the Novel

Passion for Teaching
At the heart of the story is Bepo’s deep love for teaching. He doesn’t just see his role as a job but as a calling. His care for his students and dedication to their growth inspire everyone around him.

Migration and the “Japa” Wave
The novel highlights the ongoing trend of Nigerians leaving the country to seek better opportunities abroad. Through Bepo’s story and the stories of others, the book shows both the promises and the dangers of migration. Some find success, but many lose their sense of identity or face new struggles.

Identity and Belonging
Bepo’s dilemma is not just about money or career. It is about identity. Should he leave behind the place where he is needed and respected, or should he follow his family abroad? The theme of belonging is central to the novel.

Integrity and Courage
From his early days at Beesway School to his years at Stardom, Bepo constantly chooses honesty over compromise. He stands against corruption, even when it costs him comfort or opportunity.

History and Modern Struggles
By connecting the slave trade to present-day migration, the book reminds us that many of today’s challenges are tied to long histories of exploitation and inequality.

Family vs. Career
One of the most relatable themes is the struggle between family responsibilities and personal passion. Bepo’s wife and children want him to move to the UK, but his heart is with his students in Nigeria.

Language and Style

Kabir Alabi Garba uses simple and direct language to make the story easy to follow. The novel reads like real life, with natural conversations and relatable situations.

The style is also emotional and reflective. We are invited into Bepo’s inner world, where we see his fears, doubts, and dreams. The author uses flashbacks to connect his past experiences with his present challenges, which helps us understand his character better.

Even though the novel deals with serious issues, it doesn’t lose its warmth. Mr. Bepo himself is known for his humour and charm, which bring moments of lightness to the story. The nickname “The Lekki Headmaster” becomes more than just a joke, it turns into a symbol of his strength, leadership, and lasting impact.