The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed the Igbo Apprenticeship Bill, officially recognizing and regulating the traditional “Igba Boi” system.
The law, which will take effect on September 10, 2025, is designed to strengthen entrepreneurship, create jobs, and drive economic growth in the state.
Sponsored by Sir Ejike Okechukwu, the bill establishes a legal framework to guide apprenticeship, ensuring fair treatment of apprentices and setting minimum standards for training. It also creates the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Commission, which will maintain a register of apprentices and mediate disputes.
The legislation stipulates that apprentices must have basic education before qualifying, while training is not expected to exceed seven years. It further outlines the rights and responsibilities of both mentors and apprentices to ensure fairness, accountability, and balance.
Speaker of the Assembly, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, praised the sponsor of the bill and the joint committees on Trade, Commerce and Industry, and Judiciary and Justice for their role in its passage.
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