A former Chief of Staff to the former Imo Governor, Mr Uche Nwosu, has called for reforms to the traditional Igbo apprenticeship system to make it more inclusive, accountable and suited to today’s global economy.
Nwosu made the call in a keynote address titled “Rebuilding the Igbo Apprenticeship System for a New Generation,” at the 2026 Igbo National Convention organised by the Igbo Union Canada.
This is according to a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.
He said the apprenticeship model, popularly known as Igba Boi, Imu Ahia and Imu Oru, remained one of the most enduring indigenous economic systems, empowering generations of entrepreneurs.
According to him, the model predates modern concepts such as mentorship, startup incubation, venture funding and business networking.
He said it prepares young people for business ownership through practical training in customer relations, negotiation, inventory management, market dynamics and business ethics.
“The master did not merely give the apprentice a certificate at the end of training but provided a pathway into business through capital, equipment, goods, contacts or access to customers,” he said.
Nwosu said the system played a key role in rebuilding Igbo businesses after the Nigerian Civil War, helping many families recover from economic losses.
He added that it transformed thousands of young people into traders, manufacturers, transport operators, craftsmen, importers and employers.
He, however, acknowledged weaknesses in the traditional model.
According to him, some apprentices completed their service without being settled, while others faced exploitation because agreements lacked legal protection.
He added that women and girls had often been excluded, while many apprentices were not acquiring digital, financial and technological skills needed in today’s economy.
“A tradition does not survive because we refuse to change it.
“A tradition survives because we protect its values while improving its methods,” he said.
Nwosu called for written apprenticeship agreements, structured training plans, clearly defined settlement terms, safe working conditions, recognised certificates and effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
He also advocated greater inclusion of women, saying the future of Igbo enterprise could not be built while excluding half of its talent.
According to him, the Igbo diaspora can strengthen the system through mentorship, technology transfer, investment and access to international markets.
He urged successful Igbo professionals abroad to mentor at least one young entrepreneur.
“I therefore propose a simple commitment: one successful Igbo professional, one apprentice, one future enterprise,” he said.
Nwosu also urged the Igbo Union Canada to ensure that its proposed Igbo House serves not only as a cultural centre but also as a hub for entrepreneurship, mentorship, skills development and investment.
He said the facility should connect experienced professionals with young innovators while preserving Igbo cultural values.
He stressed that sustainable prosperity depended on transferring knowledge and creating opportunities for future generations.
“We must preserve the spirit of our ancestors, correct the weaknesses of the old system, embrace technology, accountability, women, education and global opportunities.
“Let us make the Igbo apprenticeship system not merely a proud story from our past, but a powerful strategy for our future,” he said.
