Ex-Imo Governorship Candidate Calls for Overhaul of Igbo Apprenticeship System

Former Imo State governorship candidate Uche Nwosu has called for a modern restructuring of the traditional Igbo apprenticeship framework to better align with contemporary economic realities.

Speaking at the 2026 Igbo National Convention organized by the Igbo Union Canada, Nwosu described the centuries-old business training model known locally through schemes like Igba Boi as a foundational engine of Igbo enterprise, resilience, and post-civil war economic recovery.

While praising the system for pioneering early forms of business incubation and venture capital, Nwosu highlighted critical vulnerabilities that currently limit its effectiveness. He pointed to unfulfilled verbal agreements, cases of apprentice exploitation, lack of legal protections, and the historical exclusion of women.

To modernize the system, Nwosu proposed key reforms including formalized written contracts, structured learning curricula, transparent settlement protocols, dispute resolution mechanisms, and training in modern business skills such as digital marketing and financial management. He also urged business leaders to actively include women to maximize the region’s entrepreneurial potential.