Uche Nwosu Calls for Overhaul of Igbo Apprenticeship System

Former Imo State Chief of Staff and ex‑governorship candidate Uche Nwosu urged a comprehensive reform of the traditional Igbo apprenticeship model at the 2026 Igbo National Convention organised by Igbo Union Canada. He highlighted the system’s historic role in rebuilding the Igbo economy after the civil war and its contribution to entrepreneurship, but warned that it now suffers from gender exclusion, lack of legal protection and insufficient digital and financial training.

Nwosu proposed written apprenticeship agreements, structured training plans, clear settlement terms, safe working conditions, recognised certificates and dispute‑resolution mechanisms, and called for greater inclusion of women. He said, “A tradition does not survive because we refuse to change it. A tradition survives because we protect its values while improving its methods.” The reform proposal aims to align the indigenous Igba Boi, Imu Ahia and Imu Oru practices with today’s global economy.

He appealed to the Igbo diaspora for mentorship, technology transfer, investment and market access to modernise the system and secure the economic future of younger generations.