Nestlé Professional, the Out of Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has continued its impactful initiative aimed at boosting the local economy among food vendors through its Business of Food workshop. Held in Sokoto, this 8th edition of the workshop has provided over 1,900 food businesses across seven states with essential skills and knowledge to enhance their operations and increase their income.
The workshop is part of a broader empowerment program targeting canteens, grillers, Maishais, and bukas—key players in serving low-income communities in Nigeria. These food vendors play a crucial role in providing daily nutrition to bustling urban areas, yet often lack the necessary support to thrive. The program aims to help them improve their businesses through networking, upskilling, and training on various aspects of the food industry, including culinary techniques, menu planning, customer engagement, and good hygiene practices.
“We are thrilled to bring this Business of Food workshop to Sokoto,” said Mrs. Funmi Osineye, Business Manager for Nestlé Professional in Nigeria. “The business of food extends beyond preparing delicious meals. It involves a focus on nutrition, pricing, presentation, taste, and hygiene. Our goal is to support food vendors of all sizes by providing them with the knowledge and tools derived from our global insights and local experience. We are confident this will foster lasting change and growth within the local food vendor community, as witnessed in previous locations.”
A highlight of the half-day training session was a masterclass by Chef Faridah on the preparation of Masa and Miyan Duka, a dish that represents the rich culinary traditions of northern Nigeria. The event also featured an exciting cooking competition where teams ‘Chicken’ and ‘Star’ competed to create the best jollof spaghetti dish.
Mrs. Osineye assured participants of Nestlé Professional’s commitment to supporting the growth and success of food vendors in Nigeria. “We aim to make more possible by uplifting the local food industry, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating a positive impact in communities,” she said.
Nestlé Professional focuses on providing innovative, high-quality food and beverage solutions to the out-of-home or foodservice industry in Nigeria. The division caters to a wide range of customers, including restaurants, hotels, cafes, offices, catering companies, coffee shops, and other foodservice providers, with the vision of being the trusted partner of choice in the industry.
Nestlé Nigeria, Africa’s top food and beverage company, is renowned for its quality, excellence, and commitment to creating shared value. With a heritage of more than 63 years in Nigeria, the company continues to ensure the availability and accessibility of nutritious food and beverage products. Nestlé supports communities close to its operations and engages in sustainable business practices to safeguard the environment.
Employing over 2,300 direct employees across three factories and seven branch offices in Nigeria, Nestlé produces and markets iconic brands such as Maggi, Milo, Golden Morn, Nestlé Pure Life, and Cerelac.