By Olakunle Oke
Author and entrepreneur Ebele Obi has called for the revival of Nigeria’s traditional apprenticeship system and greater emphasis on financial literacy in the nation’s education curriculum, saying both are critical for sustainable economic growth and youth empowerment.
Speaking during the launch of her book Just Go Further: Become a Total Entrepreneur in Lagos, Obi reflected on her personal journey, crediting her upbringing in a trading family for shaping her entrepreneurial mindset.
Obi emphasized the need for Nigerians, especially young people, to embrace saving, investing, and building wealth through long-term planning. She lamented that financial education is rarely taught in schools, urging policymakers to make finance and accounting compulsory subjects at all levels.
She noted: “There’s no point being a doctor when you can’t manage your hospital, or a lawyer who can’t manage money. We must teach our children financial prudence, the importance of saving, and how to make money work for them.”
The event, attended by dignitaries including His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, C.O.N., and his wife, also featured family members, close friends, and professional associates of the author. In an emotional moment, Obi paid tribute to her late friend, Uju Moneke, describing her as “a lovely soul whose spirit continues to inspire.”
She also acknowledged her husband, siblings, mentors, and professional colleagues for their unwavering support during the book project, revealing that the launch had been delayed due to her husband’s illness last year.
“Last year, the devil stole my joy, but this year I told myself I would do everything. The launch had to happen,” she said to applause from guests.
Highlighting Nigeria’s declining reading culture, Obi urged the public to rediscover the habit of reading and self-education.
“Notices are put up everywhere, yet people still ask questions about what’s already written. We must read more,” she remarked.
Turning to Nigeria’s traditional apprenticeship model, popularly known as Igba Boy, Obi argued that the system, which originated in Igbo communities, remains one of the country’s most effective business incubators.
She said: “I don’t care what Google says; apprenticeship came from Igboland. It built loyalty, trust, and industry among young men. Today, Germany and the UK are thriving on similar models.”
She urged the Ministry of Education to formalize apprenticeship schemes and integrate them into the national vocational and skills training framework.
She said: “The important thing is to live life while you’re alive. If you live for people, you don’t need to fear death. Whatever you have, share it with a sister or a brother.”
