Social Norms In The Apprenticeship System In Nigeria: A Legal Perspective

Written by: Praise Oluwasina, Graduate of Law, University of Ibadan.

Abstract

The apprenticeship system in Nigeria has long served as a vital means for skill acquisition and economic empowerment, deeply rooted in longstanding cultural traditions. However, beneath its promising exterior lies an intricate web of social norms that often justify exploitative practices, pushing apprentices to perform tasks far removed from their core vocational training. This study explores the tension between traditional apprenticeship practices and modern legal standards, examining how cultural expectations can both support and undermine the growth and welfare of young learners. Using a legal analytical framework, the paper reviews statutory provisions, judicial decisions, and informal practices that shape the apprenticeship landscape in Nigeria. By critically assessing legal texts alongside cultural realities, the study reveals how customary practices, such as enforcing menial duties under the guise of discipline or character building, deviate from the intended purpose of skill development. This methodology enables a comprehensive understanding of both the legal and social dimensions that influence the apprenticeship system. The findings reveal that while apprenticeships hold significant potential for providing practical training and fostering economic independence, many apprentices remain vulnerable to exploitation. The study reveals that unwritten agreements and loosely defined roles enable masters to impose non-vocational tasks on apprentices, thereby providing them with limited legal recourse. In addition, the sporadic nature of judicial intervention and the absence of clear statutory guidelines have left a gap in the protection of apprentices' rights, thereby compromising their career development and overall welfare. In conclusion, this paper calls for urgent reforms that bridge the gap between cultural traditions and modern legal requirements. It recommends the establishment of stronger legal safeguards, more transparent regulatory oversight, and the formalization of apprenticeship agreements. Such steps are essential to ensure that apprenticeship becomes a proper pathway to skill acquisition and economic progress, rather than a mechanism for exploitation.

Keywords: Apprenticeship, Legal Framework, Social Norms, Exploitation, Nigeria, Labour Law, Cultural Practices.

PRAISE.pdf

Download PDF • 295KB

Volume 1 | Issue 6