APPOEMN Hosts Training Program for Waiters in Nigeria
Executives from the Association of Professional Party Organizers and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPOEMN), along with special guests and attendees, recently gathered for the training seminar titled Beyond the Tray.
This event underscored the importance of execution in the events industry, highlighting that a successful event extends beyond planning—it’s ultimately defined by the delivery of the envisioned experience. Waitstaff are pivotal in shaping guest experiences, prompting APPOEMN to host a conference in Lagos, Nigeria, which attracted over 1,000 waiters. This initiative aimed not only to celebrate their vital contributions but also to enhance their hospitality skills and elevate the professionalism associated with this vital role.
The training, themed ‘Beyond the Tray: The Power Behind Service,’ coincided with International Waiters’ Day. During an empowerment session, APPOEMN Vice President Babatunde Olawi emphasized the need to view waiters and service staff as crucial players within the Nigerian hospitality sector. He noted that their responsibilities go far beyond occasional guest service.
Olawi highlighted the association’s commitment to reshaping the attitudes of those within the industry, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the value these workers add throughout the event business value chain. He lamented that many industry professionals overlook hospitality as a viable career path with substantial opportunities for advancement and leadership.
Furthermore, Olawi expressed a dedication to transforming perceptions within the field, striving to eliminate mediocrity and promote a culture of professionalism. He articulated the initiative’s goal of fostering confidence among participants, empowering them to recognize that their current roles do not limit their future potential. His message emphasized the importance of mindset in cultivating a sense of belonging and significance in their careers.
APPOEMN’s Director of Education, Adeola Sessi Traore, elaborated on the organization’s efforts to enhance professional training and industry collaboration, ensuring that Nigerian event personnel align with global standards. She affirmed the association’s commitment to equipping members with the necessary knowledge and competencies to compete on an international stage.
Sessi Traore outlined the focus on education, standardization, and continuous learning as foundational elements of fostering professionalism in the sector. She further emphasized the importance of practitioners receiving comprehensive training that adheres to internationally recognized best practices, noting, “We are dedicated to maintaining high standards and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.” The inspiration behind the program’s theme arose from the recognition that waiters and service providers significantly influence customer experiences and event success. The association aims to encourage professionals to transcend conventional service delivery, fostering a culture of excellence and professional development.
Special guest Bolatito Elizabeth Okolie, CEO of Bonix Drinks, underscored the vital role of continuous learning and innovation for hospitality professionals. She called on waiters and industry stakeholders to remain competitive in an ever-evolving market. According to Okolie, hospitality transcends mere service; it encompasses creating memorable experiences and fostering relationships while upholding rigorous professional standards.
Addressing the event’s attendees—including waiters, supervisors, and managers—Okolie stressed that true excellence stems not from titles but from attitudes, consistency, and unwavering dedication to service. Her remarks reinforced the notion that in a fast-paced industry marked by rising customer expectations and global competition, ongoing skill development and a commitment to innovation are no longer optional but essential. The event served as an affirmation of the interdependence between professional growth and the overall success of any hospitality venture.
