Igba-boi Entrepreneurial Philosophy: An Afrocentric Place-Building Model

Abstract

Through the lens of a place-building model, this theoretical analysis of existing discourse explains the Igba-boi entrepreneurial philosophy and its transformative role in the post-Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) socioeconomic recovery of the Igbo ethnic group. It positions the entrepreneurship model as a strategic resource for capacity development within marginalised communities, ultimately advancing sustainable local economies. Using a qualitative research methodology rooted in a desktop-based literature review, this study draws attention to the core principles of the model’s philosophical foundations, emphasising its profound potential as a blueprint for similarly marginalised Indigenous communities. The model’s implementation hinges on the community’s unified acknowledgement of the importance of development, and the dedication of successful entrepreneurs in identifying, mentoring, and establishing emerging talent. Implementing this entrepreneurial philosophy offers marginalised groups a viable pathway toward economic empowerment, self-sufficiency, and the conservation of cultural heritage. Actors and policymakers can effectively fuse the model’s foundations into development frameworks for marginalised communities.

Keywords

• afrocentric model
• igba-boi entrepreneurship
• indigenous people
• marginalised communities
• sustainable economy