Anambra News
Anambra Assembly Passes Igbo Apprenticeship Bill 2025 Into Law
Anambra Assembly Passes Historic Igbo Apprenticeship Bill Into Law
Anambra Assembly Passes Igbo Apprenticeship Bill 2025 Into Law
The Anambra State House of Assembly has made history by passing into law the Igbo Apprenticeship Bill 2025, a landmark legislation that gives legal recognition and regulation to the globally acclaimed Igbo Apprenticeship System, popularly known as Igba Boi.
The bill, sponsored by Rt. Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, member representing Anaocha II Constituency, was passed under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze, Ph.D.
Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze, Ph.D.
This makes Anambra the first state in Nigeria to formally institutionalize the apprenticeship system, often described as the largest business incubator in the world.
Key Features of the New Law
- Legal Recognition and Protection
- For the first time, both the Oga (business master) and the Nwa Boi (apprentice) now have their rights and duties protected by law.
- Written Agreements
- Every apprenticeship relationship must be documented in writing, with clear settlement terms and conditions.
- Rights and Responsibilities
- Apprentices will be entitled to safe accommodation, feeding, and welfare.
- Masters must train, mentor, and eventually settle apprentices after the agreed term.
- Duration and Education
- No apprenticeship will last beyond 7 years.
- Apprentices must have at least a Basic Education Certificate before entering the system.
- Dispute Resolution
- Family and market structures will handle disputes first.
- Where unresolved, the newly created Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Commission will mediate before issues go to court.
- The Apprenticeship Commission
- A new Commission will register agreements, maintain a database of masters and apprentices, resolve conflicts, and issue certificates of completion.
- Boosting Trade and Commerce
- By enforcing fair settlements and trust, the law is expected to empower young entrepreneurs, protect apprentices, and drive Anambra’s economy.
Why This Matters
The Igbo Apprenticeship System has for decades produced successful entrepreneurs who dominate trade and commerce across Nigeria and beyond. By giving it a legal framework, Anambra has safeguarded a cultural and economic heritage while opening new doors of opportunity for young people.
Statement from the Speaker
Speaking on the passage of the bill, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze, described it as both cultural and economic progress.
“This is not just a law, but a revolution. By protecting the rights of our apprentices and masters, we are strengthening Igbo enterprise, preserving our heritage, and empowering our youths to succeed in business with dignity.”
With this development, Ndi Anambra now look forward to the effective implementation of the law, which is expected to reshape the future of apprenticeship and business growth in the state.
Read about The Untold Story of Why Igbo People Excel in Business Worldwide
