Nestlé Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to youth empowerment and skill development with a significant investment of over six billion naira. This announcement was made during the recent graduation ceremony of ten young trainees from its Technical Training Centre (TTC) in Agbara. The TTC program, which began in 2011, aims to upskill young Nigerians and foster the next generation of skilled professionals.
The latest graduates, comprising the second stream of the seventh batch, completed an intensive 18-month program that combines theoretical and practical engineering education. This training culminates in the City and Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification, significantly enhancing the employability of the participants. With this batch, the total number of graduates from the Agbara TTC this year reaches thirty, adding to the over 190 young professionals who have completed the program since its inception. Impressively, 97% of the program’s graduates have been employed within Nestlé Nigeria, demonstrating the program’s success and impact.
Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director/CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, highlighted the company’s dedication to nurturing young talent: “Our investment in upskilling these bright young minds over the last 13 years not only reflects our firm belief in the potential of the next generation but our commitment to enabling them to thrive. By bridging the technical skills gap in the industry, we are not only enhancing the employability of our youth but also empowering them to achieve financial independence, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and society at large. This is one of the ways we are creating shared value.”
Beyond the TTC, Nestlé’s dedication to youth empowerment is also reflected in its broader youth engagement platform, Nestlé Needs YOUth. Launched in 2013, this initiative aims to help young people access economic opportunities, focusing on four pillars: getting them hired, skilled, supported, and providing them with more opportunities. Through various programs under this banner, Nestlé reaches an average of 25,000 youths annually.
Mr. Shakiru Lawal, the Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized the significance of these efforts: “We are playing our part to cushion the impact of economic challenges on the youth and prepare them for the future. Some of these initiatives include our Nesternship Program, Nestlé Youth Development Program, and our active participation in the Alliance for Youth Nigeria initiative. In all, we reach over 25,000 youth annually.” He added that all graduates in this batch had also been employed by Nestlé Nigeria. “They have earned their place through dedication and excellence, and we are thrilled to welcome them to the Nestlé family.”
Professor Abayomi Adelaja Arigbabu, the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, delivered a message of commendation through Comrade Rotimi Okeleye Olarotimi, Director of State Schools Sports. He praised the Nestlé Technical Training Centre for its commitment to empowering young minds and congratulated the graduates: “To the graduands, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to you. Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be proud of your achievements. The skills and training you have acquired in the Nestlé Technical Training Centre is a powerful tool that can shape your future and open doors to new possibilities. I implore you to strive for excellence in all your endeavors and make a positive impact in your chosen field.”
The ceremony was also attended by His Excellency, the Alagbara of Agbara, Oba Lukman Jayeola Agunbiade, and representatives from the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), whose support has been instrumental in the success of the Technical Training Program.
Nestlé Nigeria continues to uphold its reputation as Africa’s leading food and beverage company, known for quality, excellence, and commitment to creating shared value. With over 63 years in Nigeria, the company supports local communities and emphasizes sustainable business practices. Nestlé employs over 2,300 people across its three factories and seven branch offices in Nigeria, producing and marketing iconic brands such as Maggi, Milo, Golden Morn, Nestlé Pure Life, and Cerelac.