“A tradition does not survive because we refuse to change it,” Nwosu stated. “A tradition survives because we protect its values while improving its methods.” He called for written apprenticeship contracts, structured training programs, clear settlement terms, safe working conditions, recognized certification, and effective dispute resolution mechanisms. He stressed the need to include women, arguing that the future of Igbo enterprise cannot thrive while excluding half its talent pool.
Nwosu also urged the Igbo diaspora to support the system through mentorship, technology transfer, investment, and access to international markets. He proposed that every successful Igbo professional abroad should mentor at least one young entrepreneur, calling it “one successful Igbo professional, one apprentice, one future enterprise.” He encouraged the Igbo Union Canada to develop its proposed Igbo House into a hub for entrepreneurship, mentorship, skills development, and investment, ensuring it connects experienced professionals with young innovators while preserving cultural values.
He concluded that sustainable prosperity depends on knowledge transfer and opportunity creation for future generations. “We must preserve the spirit of our ancestors, correct the weaknesses of the old system, embrace technology, accountability, women, education, and global opportunities,” he said. “Let us make the Igbo apprenticeship system not merely a proud story from our past, but a powerful strategy for our future.”
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