Nestlé Nigeria Celebrates 15 Years of Technical Training Initiative
Nestlé Nigeria marked the 15th anniversary of its technical training initiative with the graduation of 20 new trainees from the Abaji Factory Technical Training Center. The celebration took place at the Flower Gate factory in Sagami Village, highlighting the company’s long-standing commitment to empowering young Nigerians with essential technical and vocational skills.
Investment in Skills Development
Over the past decade and a half, Nestlé Nigeria has invested more than N6 billion in this initiative, which began in 2011 at the Agbara factory and has since expanded to include the Abaji and Flower Gate locations. The program has successfully equipped hundreds of young Nigerians with practical skills through an intensive 18-month curriculum that combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience in food technology, engineering, and manufacturing. Graduates receive an internationally recognized Technician certification from City and Guilds of London.
Job Opportunities for Graduates
Demonstrating its commitment to youth empowerment, Nestlé Nigeria successfully employs 98 percent of its technical training center graduates, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce. This approach not only elevates individual trainees but also strengthens the overall industry landscape by fostering a skilled workforce.
Encouragement for Future Success
At the graduation ceremony, Wasim Elfseini, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, urged graduates to approach their future careers with confidence. Elfseini emphasized the importance of continuous learning and resilience, stating that the skills gained during the program serve as a strong foundation for success in a competitive industry.
Long-Term Commitment to Youth Development
Shakil Lawal, Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, reflected on the journey of the Nestlé Technical Training Center, which has produced 289 graduates since its inception. Lawal reiterated that the program is a testament to Nestlé’s ongoing commitment to youth development and employability, stating that it serves as a talent pipeline for the manufacturing sector.
Inclusivity in Technical Education
The graduation ceremony showcased equal representation, with 10 young men and 10 young women receiving their certificates. His Excellency Patrick Egloff, Ambassador of Switzerland to Nigeria, commended this balance, emphasizing that it underscores the availability of technical excellence to all young individuals, thereby promoting inclusivity within the profession.
Support from Industry Partners
The event drew attention from various stakeholders, including industry partners and local government representatives. Adewale Smut Oyelinde, Executive Director of the Employers Council of Nigeria, reaffirmed NECA’s commitment to partnering with Nestlé Nigeria to ensure the sustained success of this initiative. Other representatives, including those from City & Guilds, also praised the program while reiterating their support for advancing technical skills development in Nigeria.
Local leaders and representatives from the Ministry of Youth and Ministry of Education shared messages of goodwill, recognizing Nestlé Nigeria’s dedication to youth empowerment, technical education, and community development. The Nestlé Skills Training Initiative stands as a cornerstone of Nestlé Needs Youth, the global initiative launched in 2013, aimed at equipping young people with the necessary skills, experiences, and opportunities to access meaningful employment, with a goal to reach 10 million youths globally by 2030.
