Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a landmark bill into law, formally recognizing the traditional Igbo apprenticeship model, popularly known as ‘Igba Boi’.
The legislation, which takes effect from September 10, 2025, seeks to institutionalize the age-old mentorship system as a driver of entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth across the state.
Sponsored by Sir Ejike Okechukwu, the law provides a legal framework for the apprenticeship scheme by defining the rights and responsibilities of mentors (Ogas) and apprentices.
It mandates fair treatment, introduces minimum training standards, and limits the training period to a maximum of seven years.
A key feature of the law is the establishment of the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Commission, a regulatory body responsible for registering apprentices and addressing disputes within the system.
The legislation also requires apprentices to possess a basic level of formal education before enrollment.
According to lawmakers, the bill strikes a balance between tradition and modern governance standards, ensuring accountability, fairness, and sustainability.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, commended the bill’s sponsor and the Joint Committees on Trade, Commerce and Industry, as well as Judiciary and Justice, for their efforts.
“This is a win for our culture, for our young people, and for economic inclusion,” he said during plenary.
