Nestlé Nigeria is marking 15 years of impactful youth empowerment with the graduation of 20 young trainees from the Flowergate Technical Training Centre. The company aims to reach 10 million young people worldwide by 2030 through its Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative. This milestone underscores Nestlé's long-term commitment to equipping Nigerian youth with technical and vocational skills.
Nestlé Technical Training Centre: A Decade of Impact
The Nestlé Technical Training Centre, part of the global Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative launched in 2013, has been operational since 2011 at the Agbara Factory. Over the years, it has trained 309 young Nigerians across three locations: Agbara, Flowergate, and Abaji. With an investment exceeding N6 billion, the programme offers an intensive 18-month curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical engineering training.
The curriculum covers food technology, engineering, and manufacturing operations, providing trainees with the technical expertise needed in today's industrial environment. Upon completion, graduates receive the internationally recognized City and Guilds of London Technicians' Certification, enhancing their employability both in Nigeria and abroad.
Commitment to Youth Development
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Nestlé Nigeria's Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, highlighted the initiative's alignment with the company's purpose. “At Nestlé, our purpose is to unlock the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone today and for generations to come. It is this purpose that drives initiatives such as this. Through the Nestlé Technical Training Centre, we are investing in the future of our industry, our communities, and the thousands of talented young Nigerians ready to grow and excel,” he said.
He added, “Over the past 15 years, we have seen firsthand how this pipeline of talent has strengthened our operations, built critical capabilities within the industry, and created meaningful pathways for young people to thrive.” Elhusseini reaffirmed Nestlé's commitment to expanding opportunities and empowering the next generation of skilled professionals.
Broader Impact of Nestlé Needs YOUth
Country Human Resource Manager Shakiru Lawal emphasized the broader impact of the Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative in Central and West Africa. He noted that the programme focuses on unlocking potential through skills, opportunities, and real pathways to work. “Through structured training, apprenticeships, and strong industry partnerships, the company is helping young people build the skills they need to succeed in today’s workforce while also strengthening the future of our industry,” Lawal stated.
He further explained, “In Nigeria, this commitment comes to life through the Nestlé Technical Training Centres. With an impressive 98 per cent of graduates moving into employment within Nestlé, the programme has become a key talent pipeline for the business. Most importantly, it reflects our purpose of creating shared value through industry knowledge, practical skills, and meaningful job opportunities.”
Graduate Testimonials
The valedictorian of the graduating set, Mr. Samuel Oladokun, spoke on behalf of his fellow graduates, sharing a powerful testimony of the programme's impact. He said the training has gone beyond building technical skills to shaping discipline, strengthening confidence, and preparing beneficiaries for demanding industrial environments. “As graduates, we are leaving this Centre not only with technical competence, but also with a stronger sense of responsibility, teamwork, and professionalism. We are grateful for the opportunity we have been given, and we step forward with confidence, ready to contribute meaningfully, grow in our careers, and make a positive impact wherever we find ourselves,” he said.
Community and Government Support
The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remo Land, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, commended the initiative for its positive impact on local communities and reaffirmed the community's support for sustaining such developmental programmes. Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Ogun State, Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, also praised Nestlé Nigeria for its continued support of government efforts in youth empowerment and skills development.
Additionally, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Ogun State, Ms. Conny Camenzind, Consul General of Switzerland, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment, the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), and the Alliance for Youth initiative, commended the programme's progress and reaffirmed their support for its success.
