Emmanuel OchayiProf. Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines Limited, urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to utilize the Igbo apprenticeship system to combat youth unemployment in Nigeria.
Speaking at the sidelines of a public book presentation by The Sun in Abuja on Thursday, Okonkwo passionately advocated for the adoption of the traditional apprenticeship system, citing its potential to engage and empower countless young Nigerians, making them self-reliant during Tinubu’s tenure.
Okonkwo’s plea stems from his sponsorship of a comprehensive study at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Business School, which focused on revitalizing the Igbo apprenticeship scheme as a catalyst for mass employment.
The results of this study, he emphasized, unequivocally support the idea that this age-old system still possesses the capability to effectively address the nation’s unemployment crisis.
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The experienced business leader argued that with the right policy framework, the apprenticeship model could be adapted to contemporary demands, providing a sustainable path to economic independence for Nigeria’s youth.
In a compelling statement, Okonkwo remarked, “When a youth is engaged as an apprentice, he not only learns the nitty-gritty of the trade but also gains essential life skills, including character development and resource management.
“Apprenticeship equips individuals with expertise in financial management, home management, human resources, banking, stock management, and supply chain management.”
Highlighting the breadth of knowledge imparted through apprenticeship, he continued, “Even an apprentice learning welding, for instance, gains insights beyond the craft itself. They learn about business operations, including fleet management, spare parts sourcing, bookkeeping, product procurement, and international business connections. These are subjects that people pay a fortune to study in business schools at home and abroad.”
Okonkwo then called on President Tinubu to explore the potential of apprenticeship by implementing a systematic policy that connects graduates with registered businesses willing to absorb them, thereby enhancing their skills and employability.
He expressed optimism about the transformative impact such an initiative could have on Nigeria’s workforce.
In an intriguing development, Okonkwo revealed that the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) was contemplating incorporating the apprenticeship system to elevate the quality of legal professionals.
He asserted, “The legal practice sector will witness remarkable changes if the NBA proceeds with its plan to embrace apprenticeships. By placing young lawyers under the tutelage of seasoned legal practitioners, the NBA can contribute significantly to the legal profession by producing high-caliber lawyers.”
Okonkwo further emphasized the ongoing relevance of the study on the Igbo apprenticeship system to Nigerian society. He extended an invitation to interested parties, stating that UNIZIK Business School would readily provide access to the final report for those seeking further information.
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