The Anambra State House of Assembly has officially passed the Igbo Apprenticeship Bill (popularly known as Igba Boi) into law, marking a historic step in the formal recognition and regulation of the centuries-old Igbo entrepreneurial tradition. The law will come into effect on September 10, 2025.
The bill, sponsored by Sir Ejike Okechukwu, provides a legal framework for the apprenticeship system that has long been regarded as the backbone of Igbo commerce and wealth creation. According to findings by Njenje Media, the new law seeks to guarantee legal protection for apprentices, while also holding mentors accountable under a structured framework that ensures fairness and transparency.
Key provisions of the law include:
• Apprenticeship duration will not exceed seven years.
• Only individuals with basic education will qualify for enrollment, ensuring that trainees can benefit maximally from the process.
• The establishment of the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Commission, which will maintain a register of apprentices, monitor compliance, and mediate in cases of disputes.
Speaking after the passage of the bill, Sir Okechukwu described the legislation as “a bold and visionary step towards promoting entrepreneurship, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth in Anambra State.”
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, alongside members of the Joint House Committees, was commended for his leadership and commitment in steering the bill to passage.
Stakeholders across the state have hailed the move as a turning point in protecting the legacy of the Igba Boi system, which has historically empowered thousands of young Igbo men through mentorship and settlement to become successful entrepreneurs.
Observers note that the law not only secures the future of Igbo business culture but also sets a precedent that could inspire other states in the South-East and beyond to adopt similar measures in strengthening traditional entrepreneurship models.
With this development, Anambra State has positioned itself as the first to institutionalize the Igba Boi system, ensuring that the values of hard work, mentorship, and economic empowerment continue to thrive for generations to come.
Njenje Media will continue to track the implementation of this landmark law and its impact on business and youth empowerment across Anambra State.
