The Anambra State House of Assembly is working on a bill that will formally peg the duration of the popular Igbo apprenticeship system at seven years.
Known as the “Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Bill 2024”, the proposed law was presented for public hearing at the legislative complex in Awka.
One of the provisions of the bill is that anyone wishing to become an apprentice must have completed basic education before starting their apprenticeship journey.
Declaring the hearing open, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, said the bill is designed to protect a key economic and cultural tradition of the Igbo people. According to him, it will prevent abuse, encourage transparency, and preserve the integrity of the apprenticeship system.
The bill’s sponsor, Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, who represents Anaocha Constituency 2, explained that the law will help prevent exploitation by making sure that all agreements are documented. This includes written contracts clearly stating the responsibilities of both parties, the apprenticeship duration, and the terms for eventual settlement.
Other key highlights of the bill include:
Mandatory documentation of every apprenticeship agreement.
A database of all registered apprentices and their masters.
A platform for resolving disputes between both parties.
If passed, this would be the first time the apprenticeship system—popularly known as “Ịgba Boi”—would be formally regulated by law in any part of the Southeast.
