In the quest to checkmate decline in Igbo apprenticeship scheme, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has launched a book entitled “Igba Boyi: A Story of The Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme in Onitsha Markets”.
The book presentation, which took place at ASUU secretariat of the institution, attracted government functionaries, traditional rulers, captains of industry, academia, students, among others.
The he three hundred and fifty paged book was authored by Professor Nkemdili Nonyelu, Professor Chinedu Onyeizugbe, Dr. Rosemary Anazodo and Ezimma Nnabuife.
In his remark at the event, the Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Charles Esimone, described the book as a masterpiece which content has been receiving international endorsement, and which is worthy of making every Igbo person proud of his background.
Saying that the book is a fulfilled dream, Professor Esimone commended the authors for the laudable venture and noted that wherever accolades are given to the book, UNIZIK will also receive credit for being its originator.
On his part, Governor Chukwuma Soludo explained that the launch of the book is a welcome development; as “Igba boyi” is one of the policies he mapped out in his manifesto for the good of Anambra youths.
The Governor, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Commerce, Barrister Chinedu Ike, pointed out that the book will help reduce drastically the discrepancies Igbo boys encounter during “igba boyi”apprenticeship, and promised that his government will work with the book.
The lead author of the book, Professor Nonyelu, noted that the book is a symbol of Igbo enterprise embedded in “igba boyi” apprenticeship scheme, and that decline in the practice necessitated the study.
He recounted how the researchers went into the four major markets in Onitsha and environs, adding that if nothing is done soon, there won’t be anything like“igba boyi” again, which he said will be disastrous for the Igbo race.
He further emphasized that the book tends to re-modify, re-energise and rebrand “igba boyi”, in such a way that government will be a stakeholder.
Professor Nnoyelum appreciated the sponsor, Chief Obiorah Okonkwo for his magnanimity and all others who contributed to make the book launch a success.
Also speaking, a co-author of the book, Dr Anazodo, recalled the origin of “igba boyi” and how it emanated from Anambra State, the important role the scheme played in the life of Ndigbo after the civil war, and urged Ndigbo to go back to the entrepreneurship scheme.
One of the book reviewers, Professor Anayo Nkamnebe, affirmed that the book has achieved the purpose the authors set for themselves, and commended them for venturing into an area of rare scholarship.
Others who spoke at the event include the Chief Presenter, Dr Clem Nwogbo, Professor Mischak Nweke and Mrs. Ogechi Adeola, with the unveiling of the book bringing the event to a climax.
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