The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a landmark bill into law formally recognising the traditional Igbo apprenticeship model known as Igba Boi.
Slated to take effect from September 10, 2025, the new law aims to institutionalise the age-old mentorship system, promoting entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth across the state.
The bill, sponsored by Sir Ejike Okechukwu, sets a legal framework for the apprenticeship model, outlining the rights and responsibilities of both mentors (Ogas) and apprentices.
It also mandates fair treatment, sets minimum training standards, and caps the training period at seven years.
Importantly, the legislation establishes the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Commission, a regulatory body tasked with registering apprentices and resolving any disputes that may arise within the system.
To qualify for apprenticeship under the new law, individuals must have a basic level of formal education.
The bill seeks to strike a balance between tradition and modern standards, ensuring accountability and fairness on both sides.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, praised the sponsor and the Joint Committees on Trade, Commerce and Industry, as well as Judiciary and Justice, for their work in shaping and advancing the bill.
“This is a win for our culture, for our young people, and for economic inclusion,” the Speaker noted during the plenary.
