Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has trained more than 2,600 food vendors across 11 states through its Business of Food workshop series, aimed at equipping small food entrepreneurs with practical culinary and business skills.
The most recent edition was held in Bauchi State, where 250 food vendors, caterers, and canteen operators benefited from intensive hands-on sessions designed to boost food service quality, business management, and customer satisfaction.
Speaking during the workshop, Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager at Nestlé Professional Nigeria, said the programme was created to help small businesses not only survive but succeed in Nigeria’s highly competitive food service sector.
“Our goal is to see food vendors in Nigeria thrive. Bauchi’s food entrepreneurs are deeply rooted in tradition yet eager to innovate, and this excites us. By connecting them with practical skills, fresh ideas, and a strong network of peers, we are investing in businesses that feed families, create jobs, and preserve our rich culinary heritage,” Awelenje stated.
The training covered key areas such as menu planning, hygiene, food styling, pricing, and customer service. A highlight of the event was a live masterclass by Chef Paulina, who demonstrated innovative approaches to traditional Bauchi dishes, including Dafadukan Shinkafa Da Awara.
Participants also engaged in a cooking challenge, with winners recognized for their creativity and presentation.
One of the participants, Justina Stephen, Managing Director of Justfine Restaurants, praised the initiative, noting how it broadened her business outlook.
“The training opened my eyes to possibilities I never considered before. I now understand better how to plan my menu and price my meals to increase profit. I am truly grateful to Nestlé for this opportunity,” she said.
Since its launch, the Business of Food series has enhanced menus, improved food safety practices, and helped build customer loyalty, thereby strengthening the livelihoods of vendors nationwide.
Nestlé Professional reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s food service ecosystem through continued training, innovation, and sustainable income opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs.
