Traditional Apprenticeship among Igbo Traders and Entrepreneurship Development In South-East Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the effect of traditional apprenticeship on entrepreneurship development in South-East Nigeria. Specifically, it assessed the effects of skill acquisition, mentoring, financial literacy, business skills training, duration of apprenticeship and start-up fund on entrepreneurship development. The study was anchored on Skill Acquisition Theory and Innovation Theory of Entrepreneurship. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised 3,609 Igbo traders who had undergone the traditional apprenticeship system across selected major markets in Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States. A sample size of 360 was determined using the Taro Yamane formula, while 327 valid questionnaires, representing a 91% response rate, were used for analysis. Data were collected using a structured five-point Likert-scale questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were employed. The regression model explained 57.2% of the variation in entrepreneurship development, while the overall model was statistically significant (F = 6.151, p < .001). Skill acquisition, mentoring, financial literacy, business skills training, duration of apprenticeship and start-up fund showed positive relationships with entrepreneurship development. Financial literacy had a positive and significant effect (B = 0.171, β = 0.209, t = 23.901, p < .001). The study concludes that strengthening the financial, technical and mentoring components of traditional Igbo apprenticeship can contribute to entrepreneurship development and livelihood improvement in South-East Nigeria.