Nestlé Nigeria has concluded the 15th anniversary celebration of its Technical Training Initiative with the graduation of 20 young Nigerians from the Technical Training Centre at its Abaji Factory.

The graduation follows a similar anniversary celebration recently held at the company’s Flowergate Factory in Sagamu and further highlights Nestlé Nigeria’s long-term commitment to youth empowerment, technical education and employability.

The Technical Training Initiative, which began at the Agbara Factory in 2011, has expanded to Abaji and Flowergate and has produced 289 graduates since its establishment.

With an investment of more than ₦6 billion, the programme provides an intensive 18-month training combining classroom learning with practical experience in food technology, engineering and manufacturing operations.

The programme also leads to the internationally recognised City & Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification, giving participants professional qualifications and practical skills needed to compete in the industrial sector.

98% of Graduates Transition into Nestlé

As part of its commitment to youth employment, Nestlé Nigeria offered employment opportunities to the graduating trainees, continuing its practice of transitioning 98 per cent of Technical Training Centre graduates into the company.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, encouraged the graduates to approach the next stage of their careers with confidence.

He urged them to continue learning, remain adaptable and apply discipline and innovation as they build their careers.

Elhusseini said the technical skills acquired through the programme provide a strong foundation, but long-term career success would depend on resilience, curiosity and consistent performance.

Building Nigeria’s Future Workforce

Reflecting on the programme’s 15-year journey, Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resource Manager, Nestlé Nigeria, described the initiative as a strong example of the company’s continued investment in youth development and industry-led skills training.

According to Lawal, youth development at Nestlé is a long-term commitment focused on building skills, expanding opportunities and preparing young people for the future of work.

She noted that the Technical Training Centre has grown from its original location in Agbara to Abaji and Flowergate, becoming an important talent pipeline for Nestlé and the wider manufacturing sector.

Lawal also highlighted the contributions of key partners, including the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and the Swiss Embassy.

Equal Representation Highlighted

The latest graduating class comprised 10 young men and 10 young women, highlighting the importance of inclusion and equal opportunities in technical education.

Patrick Egloff, Ambassador of Switzerland to Nigeria, commended the equal representation among the graduates, describing it as a strong indication that technical excellence and professional opportunities should be accessible to both young women and men.

He said the representation sent an important message about inclusion and the future of Nigeria’s technical workforce.

The graduation ceremony also brought together industry partners, community leaders and government representatives, reflecting the collaborative effort behind the programme.

Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General of NECA, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to its partnership with Nestlé Nigeria in supporting the continued success of the technical training initiative.

Representatives of other partners, including City & Guilds, also commended the programme and expressed their continued support for technical skills development in Nigeria.

Community leaders, including representatives of the traditional leadership of Abaji led by the Chief of Staff, as well as representatives from the Ministries of Youth and Education, praised Nestlé Nigeria for its sustained investment in youth empowerment, technical education and community development.

Part of Nestlé Needs YOUth

The Nestlé Technical Training Initiative remains a key part of Nestlé Needs YOUth, the company’s global youth initiative launched in 2013 to equip young people with skills, experience and opportunities for meaningful employment.

The global initiative aims to reach 10 million young people by 2030.

In Nigeria, other programmes under the initiative include the Nestlé Nigeria Youth Development Programme, Nesternship and Alliance for YOUth, all focused on helping young Nigerians develop relevant skills, access opportunities and prepare for the future of work.

About Nestlé Nigeria

Nestlé Nigeria is a leading food and beverage company with more than 63 years of operations in Nigeria. The company produces and markets well-known brands including MAGGI, MILO, NESCAFÉ, Golden Morn, Nestlé Pure Life and CERELAC.

With more than 2,300 direct employees, three factories and seven branch offices across Nigeria, Nestlé Nigeria says it remains committed to providing nutritious food and beverages, supporting communities around its operations and promoting sustainable business practices.

Editorial Contact:
Lois Nweke — Lois.Nweke@ng.nestlé.com