The 2026 NECO Islamic Studies (IRS) Objective and Essay Questions and Answers
Examination Instructions
Paper I (Objective)
- Answer all sixty (60) questions.
- Choose the correct option from A–D.
- Each question carries equal marks.
Paper II (Essay)
- Answer Four Questions only.
- Choose at least one question from each section.
- All questions carry equal marks.
PAPER I
OBJECTIVE TEST
1.
The Holy Qur’an was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in the cave of
A. Thawr
B. Hira
C. Uhud
D. Safa
Answer: B
2.
The first revealed verses of the Qur’an begin with
A. Pray
B. Read
C. Fast
D. Give charity
Answer: B
3.
The Angel who delivered Allah’s revelation to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was
A. Mikail
B. Israfil
C. Jibril
D. Izra’il
Answer: C
4.
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was born in
A. Madinah
B. Makkah
C. Taif
D. Jerusalem
Answer: B
5.
The father of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was
A. Abu Talib
B. Abdullah
C. Abdul Muttalib
D. Hamzah
Answer: B
6.
The mother of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was
A. Khadijah
B. Aminah
C. Fatimah
D. Hafsah
Answer: B
7.
The migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah is called
A. Hijrah
B. Isra’
C. Jihad
D. Da’wah
Answer: A
8.
The Islamic calendar begins from the year of
A. Birth of the Prophet
B. Revelation
C. Hijrah
D. Battle of Badr
Answer: C
9.
The first Caliph after Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was
A. Umar ibn al-Khattab
B. Uthman ibn Affan
C. Ali ibn Abi Talib
D. Abu Bakr As-Siddiq
Answer: D
10.
The Qur’an contains
A. 30 Chapters
B. 114 Surahs
C. 99 Surahs
D. 120 Surahs
Answer: B
11.
The opening chapter of the Qur’an is
A. Al-Baqarah
B. Al-Fatihah
C. Al-Ikhlas
D. An-Nas
Answer: B
12.
The longest Surah in the Qur’an is
A. Al-Imran
B. Al-Baqarah
C. An-Nisa’
D. Yunus
Answer: B
13.
The Night Journey of the Prophet is known as
A. Hijrah
B. Isra’ and Mi’raj
C. Da’wah
D. Fath Makkah
Answer: B
14.
The first mosque built by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) after Hijrah was
A. Masjid al-Haram
B. Masjid Quba
C. Masjid an-Nabawi
D. Masjid al-Aqsa
Answer: B
15.
The testimony of faith in Islam is known as
A. Salah
B. Shahadah
C. Zakah
D. Sawm
Answer: B
16.
How many pillars of Islam are there?
A. Four
B. Five
C. Six
D. Seven
Answer: B
17.
The obligatory daily prayers in Islam are
A. Three
B. Four
C. Five
D. Six
Answer: C
18.
The compulsory charity paid by eligible Muslims is
A. Sadaqah
B. Zakah
C. Fidyah
D. Kaffarah
Answer: B
19.
The month in which Muslims observe fasting is
A. Muharram
B. Rajab
C. Ramadan
D. Shawwal
Answer: C
20.
The pilgrimage to Makkah is compulsory for Muslims who are
A. Wealthy only
B. Healthy only
C. Financially and physically capable
D. Elderly only
Answer: C
21.
The second Caliph of Islam was
A. Abu Bakr
B. Umar ibn al-Khattab
C. Uthman ibn Affan
D. Ali ibn Abi Talib
Answer: B
22.
The compilation of the Qur’an into one volume was first completed during the Caliphate of
A. Abu Bakr As-Siddiq
B. Umar ibn al-Khattab
C. Uthman ibn Affan
D. Ali ibn Abi Talib
Answer: A
23.
The standardized copies of the Qur’an were distributed during the Caliphate of
A. Abu Bakr
B. Umar
C. Uthman
D. Ali
Answer: C
24.
The Battle of Badr was fought in the
A. First year after Hijrah
B. Second year after Hijrah
C. Fifth year after Hijrah
D. Eighth year after Hijrah
Answer: B
25.
The Battle of Uhud was fought against the
A. Persians
B. Romans
C. Quraysh of Makkah
D. Jews of Madinah
Answer: C
26.
The Constitution of Madinah was primarily established to
A. Increase trade
B. Unite the different communities
C. Collect taxes
D. Build more mosques
Answer: B
27.
The farewell pilgrimage of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) took place in
A. 8 AH
B. 9 AH
C. 10 AH
D. 11 AH
Answer: C
2026 NECO Islamic Studies Objective and Essay Questions and Answers
28.
The Prophet’s final sermon emphasized
A. Equality and justice
B. Wealth accumulation
C. Political leadership
D. Military strength
Answer: A
29.
The source of Islamic law that comes after the Qur’an is
A. History
B. Hadith
C. Poetry
D. Philosophy
Answer: B
30.
A Hadith consists of
A. Isnad and Matn
B. Surah and Ayah
C. Fard and Sunnah
D. Zakah and Sawm
Answer: A
31.
Belief in Allah’s oneness is called
A. Tawhid
B. Taqwa
C. Iman
D. Ihsan
Answer: A
32.
How many Articles of Faith are recognized in Islam?
A. Four
B. Five
C. Six
D. Seven
Answer: C
33.
The revealed books include all EXCEPT
A. Tawrah
B. Zabur
C. Injil
D. Bhagavad Gita
Answer: D
34.
The Prophet known for building the Ka’bah with his son Isma’il was
A. Nuh (AS)
B. Ibrahim (AS)
C. Musa (AS)
D. Yusuf (AS)
Answer: B
35.
The wife of Prophet Ibrahim who gave birth to Isma’il was
A. Sarah
B. Hajar
C. Asiyah
D. Maryam
Answer: B
36.
Prophet Musa (AS) was sent primarily to
A. Pharaoh and the Israelites
B. Romans
C. Persians
D. Ethiopians
Answer: A
37.
The miracle of Prophet Isa (AS) included
A. Parting the sea
B. Healing the blind by Allah’s permission
C. Building the Ark
D. Splitting the moon
Answer: B
38.
The final Prophet in Islam is
A. Isa (AS)
B. Musa (AS)
C. Muhammad (SAW)
D. Ibrahim (AS)
Answer: C
39.
The Arabic word “Islam” means
A. Strength
B. Peace and submission to Allah
C. Leadership
D. Brotherhood
Answer: B
40.
The Qur’an was revealed over approximately
A. 10 years
B. 15 years
C. 23 years
D. 40 years
Answer: C
41.
The first mosque built in Madinah after the Hijrah was
A. Masjid al-Haram
B. Masjid Quba
C. Masjid al-Aqsa
D. Masjid al-Qiblatayn
Answer: B
42.
The Battle of the Trench is also known as the Battle of
A. Badr
B. Khandaq
C. Hunayn
D. Tabuk
Answer: B
43.
The treaty signed between the Muslims and the Quraysh in the sixth year after Hijrah was
A. Treaty of Badr
B. Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
C. Treaty of Taif
D. Treaty of Tabuk
Answer: B
44.
The conquest of Makkah took place in
A. 6 AH
B. 7 AH
C. 8 AH
D. 10 AH
Answer: C
45.
The first Mu’adhdhin (caller to prayer) in Islam was
A. Salman al-Farisi
B. Bilal ibn Rabah
C. Abu Hurairah
D. Abdullah ibn Mas’ud
Answer: B
2026 NECO Islamic Studies Objective and Essay Questions and Answers
46.
The compulsory prayer performed every Friday is known as
A. Tahajjud
B. Jumu’ah
C. Witr
D. Duha
Answer: B
47.
The prayer performed immediately after sunrise is
A. Duha
B. Tahajjud
C. Taraweeh
D. Witr
Answer: A
48.
Which of the following invalidates ablution (Wudu)?
A. Sleeping deeply
B. Reading the Qur’an
C. Remembering Allah
D. Giving charity
Answer: A
49.
The direction Muslims face during Salah is called the
A. Mihrab
B. Minbar
C. Qiblah
D. Ka’bah Door
Answer: C
50.
The pilgrimage performed outside the Hajj season is called
A. Sawm
B. Umrah
C. Zakah
D. I’tikaf
Answer: B
51.
One of the major objectives of Zakah is to
A. Increase government revenue
B. Reduce poverty and support the needy
C. Promote international trade
D. Build more markets
Answer: B
52.
The Night of Power is known as
A. Laylat al-Qadr
B. Laylat al-Mi’raj
C. Laylat al-Bara’ah
D. Laylat al-Jumu’ah
Answer: A
53.
The chapter of the Qur’an that emphasizes the absolute oneness of Allah is
A. Surah Al-Kawthar
B. Surah Al-Ikhlas
C. Surah Al-Fil
D. Surah Al-Ma’un
Answer: B
54.
The Islamic greeting is
A. Marhaban
B. As-salamu Alaikum
C. Allahu Akbar
D. Bismillah
Answer: B
55.
The Arabic term “Sunnah” refers to
A. The sayings, actions and approvals of the Prophet (SAW)
B. The Qur’an only
C. Islamic history
D. Arabic literature
Answer: A
56.
One of the qualities of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) before Prophethood was that he was known as
A. Al-Malik
B. Al-Amin
C. Al-Mujahid
D. Al-Qari
Answer: B
57.
The payment made at the end of Ramadan before the Eid prayer is
A. Zakat al-Fitr
B. Kaffarah
C. Fidyah
D. Sadaqah Jariyah
Answer: A
58.
The Arabic word “Taqwa” means
A. Wealth
B. God-consciousness and piety
C. Leadership
D. Migration
Answer: B
59.
The primary source of Islamic legislation is
A. Hadith
B. Ijma’
C. Qiyas
D. The Holy Qur’an
Answer: D
60.
The ultimate objective of every Muslim is to
A. Accumulate wealth
B. Gain political authority
C. Worship Allah sincerely and attain His pleasure
D. Travel around the world
Answer: C
2026 NECO Islamic Studies Objective and Essay Questions and Answers
PAPER II
ESSAY QUESTIONS
Instructions to Candidates
- Answer Four (4) questions only.
- Answer at least one question from each section.
- Credit will be awarded for clarity, organization, relevant Qur’anic references where applicable, and accurate explanations.
Section A: The Holy Qur’an and the Life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
Question 1a
Discuss the circumstances surrounding the first revelation of the Holy Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Question 1b
State seven lessons Muslims can learn from the first revelation.
Model Answer
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) frequently withdrew to the Cave of Hira for meditation and worship. At the age of forty, during one of these retreats in the month of Ramadan, Angel Jibril (AS) appeared to him with the first revelation from Allah.
The angel commanded him to “Read” (Iqra’). Although the Prophet replied that he could not read, the angel repeated the command three times before revealing the opening verses of Surah Al-‘Alaq (96:1–5). These verses emphasized reading, knowledge, and learning in the name of Allah.
The Prophet returned home frightened, and his wife, Khadijah (RA), comforted and reassured him. She later consulted Waraqah ibn Nawfal, who confirmed that Muhammad (SAW) had received divine revelation similar to earlier prophets.
Lessons
- Knowledge occupies a central position in Islam.
- Muslims should seek beneficial education.
- Revelation is the ultimate source of guidance.
- Patience is necessary when carrying out Allah’s mission.
- Family support strengthens believers during difficult times.
- Every Muslim should trust Allah during challenges.
- Knowledge should always be sought in the name of Allah.
2026 NECO Islamic Studies Objective and Essay Questions and Answers
Question 2a
Explain the significance of the Hijrah from Makkah to Madinah.
Question 2b
Highlight seven lessons Muslims can learn from the Hijrah.
Model Answer
The Hijrah refers to the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his companions from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE due to severe persecution by the Quraysh.
In Madinah, the Prophet established the first Islamic state, built Masjid Quba and Masjid an-Nabawi, united the Muhajirun and Ansar, introduced the Constitution of Madinah, and created a peaceful society based on justice, cooperation, and religious tolerance.
Lessons
- Sacrifice is necessary for success.
- Muslims should trust Allah completely.
- Good leadership promotes peace.
- Unity strengthens society.
- Religious tolerance should be encouraged.
- Patience brings eventual victory.
- Planning and preparation are important before major decisions.
Section B: Islamic Beliefs and Worship
Question 3a
Discuss the Five Pillars of Islam.
Question 3b
Explain the importance of each pillar in the life of a Muslim.
Model Answer
The Five Pillars of Islam are the foundation of Islamic worship and practice.
They include:
- Shahadah (Declaration of Faith)
- Salah (Five Daily Prayers)
- Zakah (Compulsory Charity)
- Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)
- Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah)
Each pillar strengthens a Muslim’s relationship with Allah while promoting discipline, charity, unity, self-control, and obedience.
Question 4a
Explain the Six Articles of Faith in Islam.
Question 4b
State the importance of these beliefs to Muslims.
Model Answer
The Six Articles of Faith include belief in:
- Allah
- Angels
- Revealed Books
- Prophets
- The Day of Judgment
- Divine Decree (Qadar)
These beliefs provide the foundation of Islamic faith and encourage obedience, accountability, hope, patience, and complete reliance on Allah.
2026 NECO Islamic Studies Objective and Essay Questions and Answers
Section C: Islamic History and Moral Teachings
Question 5a
Write an account of the leadership of Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA).
Question 5b
Identify seven achievements of Abu Bakr during his Caliphate.
Model Answer
Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA) became the first Rightly Guided Caliph after the death of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He united the Muslim community, confronted the Ridda (apostasy) movements, preserved the unity of Islam, and initiated the first compilation of the Holy Qur’an.
Seven Achievements
- Preserved the unity of the Muslim Ummah.
- Defeated the apostasy movements.
- Ordered the first compilation of the Qur’an.
- Strengthened the Islamic government.
- Expanded Islamic influence.
- Demonstrated honesty and justice.
- Protected the teachings of Islam.
Question 6a
Discuss the importance of honesty in Islam.
Question 6b
Mention seven benefits of honesty to individuals and society.
Model Answer
Honesty is one of the highest moral virtues in Islam. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was known as Al-Amin because of his truthfulness and trustworthiness long before he became a prophet. Islam teaches Muslims to be truthful in speech, business, leadership, education, and daily interactions.
Seven Benefits of Honesty
Earns respect from others.
Builds trust within society.
Promotes peaceful coexistence.
Strengthens family relationships.
Enhances business integrity.
Attracts Allah’s blessings.
Develops good character.
