Advancing Nigeria’s Economic Future: IEAMA Pushes Structured Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Leadership.

The Institute of Entrepreneurship, Apprenticeship, Management and Administration (IEAMA) has renewed calls for the professionalisation of entrepreneurship and apprenticeship in Nigeria, describing it as a critical pathway to unlocking the nation’s economic potential.

At its National Investiture and Induction Ceremony Thursday in Abuja, themed “Advancing Nigeria’s Economic Future through Structured Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Leadership,” stakeholders emphasized that equipping young Nigerians with practical skills and globally recognised certifications is key to tackling unemployment, poverty and economic inequality.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Dr. Dipo Fisho said entrepreneurship can only thrive when individuals embrace perseverance, consistency and commitment he noted that while many young people possess innovative ideas, long-term success depends on discipline, resilience and the willingness to learn continuously, according to him, these values remain the foundation for building successful businesses capable of transforming communities and contributing to national development.

Dr Fisho further advocated the establishment of a nationally recognised apprenticeship framework that combines structured training, professional certification and digital documentation. He explained that such a system would enhance the credibility of skilled artisans, entrepreneurs and apprentices, improve quality assurance and enable Nigerian professionals to compete favourably in both local and international markets.

Registrar of IEAMA, Dr. Jerry Ibeh,  in his words disclosed that the institute is collaborating with government agencies, educational institutions and the private sector to expand entrepreneurship and apprenticeship education across Nigeria. He said the institute’s long-term vision is to secure charter status, while urging government at all levels to improve access to finance, grants and business support initiatives that would enable entrepreneurs to grow sustainable enterprises capable of creating jobs.

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper and Atlanta 1996 Olympic gold medalist, Dr. Emmanuel Babayaro, described apprenticeship as the bedrock of lasting success in every profession. He encouraged young Nigerians to embrace mentorship, discipline, patience and continuous learning, noting that the same principles that produce successful entrepreneurs are equally applicable in sports administration, leadership and other sectors of the economy.

Also speaking, IEAMA Secretary, Dr. Harirsh Yerima Bala, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to promoting inclusive entrepreneurship by supporting women, youths and persons with disabilities through specialised training programmes. He explained that robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms have been introduced to maintain high standards in apprenticeship training while ensuring that participants acquire practical, industry-relevant skills that can improve their livelihoods.

Participants at the ceremony  however agreed that structured entrepreneurship and apprenticeship leadership has become an  indispensable tools for achieving sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.

They maintained that by institutionalising professional standards, strengthening partnerships and empowering young people with practical skills, Nigeria can build a resilient workforce, stimulate innovation, reduce unemployment and lay a stronger foundation for long-term national prosperity.