Exploring the relevance of Igbo Traditional Business School in the development of entrepreneurial potential and intention in Nigeria

Abstract

This study extends the literature on the relevance of the Igbo Traditional Business School (ITBS) in building entrepreneurial potential and intention in an emerging African economy – Nigeria. Two key questions motivated the study: does the ITBS influence entrepreneurial potential and intention, and does entrepreneurial potential influence intention? Data were gathered from a purposive sample of 122 actual micro-entrepreneurs (welders) who passed through the ITBS. The results, based on Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) in SPSS 23.0, suggest that the ITBS positively and significantly influences entrepreneurial potential and intention, and that perceived desirability, perceived feasibility and propensity to act are significant predictors of entrepreneurial intention. We recommend the formulation of policies to regulate and support the operations of ITBS and, that mentors under the ITBS should aim at inculcating skills that drive desirability, feasibility, propensity to act and entrepreneurial intention in the mentees, with emphasis on the advantages of owning an enterprise.