These systems are key pathways for employment, especially among youth and in informal sectors, contributing significantly to skill development and poverty reduction.
Historical and Cultural Background
Nigeria has a long-standing tradition of informal apprenticeship systems, most notably:
- Igbo Apprenticeship System (IAS): A community-driven model where successful business owners train young apprentices, often culminating in settlement/startup capital after graduation.
- Yoruba and Hausa Traditions: Emphasize family or communal transfer of skills in crafts like tailoring, blacksmithing, carpentry, and leatherwork.
Types of Craft Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships span both informal and formal sectors:
Informal Sector
- Tailoring and Fashion Design
- Carpentry and Furniture Making
- Welding and Fabrication
- Auto Mechanics
- Barbing and Hairdressing
- Plumbing
- Electrical Installation
Formal Sector (TVET Programs)
- Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers
- Industrial Training Fund (ITF) programs
- National Directorate of Employment (NDE)
- Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) certified training
Key Stakeholders
- Apprentices – Often young people (15–35 years) seeking employment.
- Masters/Trainers – Skilled artisans or business owners.
- Government Bodies – National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), NDE, ITF.
- Trade Associations – Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering (NATE), National Union of Tailors, etc.
- NGOs and Donors – Offer funding, tools, or certification support.
Structure of Apprenticeship Programs
A. Informal Apprenticeships
- Duration: 6 months to 5 years
- Entry Requirements: Minimal or none
- Learning Mode: On-the-job training
- Assessment: Informal observation, graduation event
- Reward: Skill acquisition, sometimes financial settlement
B. Formal Apprenticeships (TVET)
- Duration: 6 months to 3 years
- Entry Requirements: WAEC/NECO/NABTEB
- Certification: National Technical Certificate (NTC),
- National Skills Qualification (NSQ)
- Supervision: Structured curriculum and evaluation
How to Get Started
- Identify Your Interest: Choose a craft that aligns with your passion.
- Find a Mentor/Trainer:
- Word-of-mouth (local connections)
- Trade associations
- Training centers
- Negotiate Terms: Clarify duration, fees, accommodation, feeding, and settlement expectations.
- Start Training: Commit to the apprenticeship with discipline and eagerness to learn.
- Certification (optional but valuable): Consider formal exams to gain recognized qualifications.
Challenges and Considerations
- Lack of Regulation in informal sector
- Financial Barriers: Fees and living expenses during training
- Gender Stereotyping: Women underrepresented in some trades
- Poor Working Conditions
- Limited Access to Modern Tools and Equipment
Government and NGO Support Programs
- National Directorate of Employment (NDE): Offers vocational training and micro-enterprise support.
- Industrial Training Fund (ITF): Supports youth with skill acquisition programs and certification.
- YouWin! & N-Power: Federal youth empowerment initiatives.
- State Government Programs: Many states run local empowerment schemes.
Benefits of Craft Apprenticeships
- Practical, job-ready skills Low barrier to entry
- Entrepreneurship opportunity
- Reduction in youth unemployment
- Cultural preservation and community bonding
Future of Craft Apprenticeships in Nigeria
- Digitization of Training: Online tutorials and virtual mentorship.
- Standardization of Certification: NSQ and modular curriculum frameworks.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Boost funding, tools, and job placements.
- Global Recognition: Nigerian artisans exporting skills/services abroad.
Conclusion
Craft apprenticeships remain a vital avenue for skills development and economic empowerment in Nigeria. With growing government support, improved structures, and increasing youth participation, apprenticeships could bridge the skill gap and reduce unemployment significantly.
