By Merit Ibe
Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has extended its flagship Business of Food workshop series to Bauchi State, empowering over 250 food vendors, canteen operators, grillers, and caterers.
They were empowered with vital culinary and business skills to thrive in Nigeria’s growing food service sector.
Now in its 11th edition, the Business of Food workshop is Nestlé Professional’s platform for empowering micro, small, and medium-scale food vendors with the skills and confidence to run profitable, sustainable businesses while serving meals that are both nutritious and prepared to the highest hygiene standards.
Designed in response to the challenges faced by operators in Nigeria’s vibrant but highly competitive foodservice sector, the program blends hands-on culinary training, business management insights, and peer-to-peer networking. Since its launch, it has reached more than 2,600 food vendors in 11 states, helping them enhance their menus, grow customer loyalty, and improve their livelihoods.
Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager, Nestlé Professional Nigeria, who shared the vision behind the initiative said: “Our goal is to see food vendors in Nigeria not just survive but thrive. Bauchi’s food entrepreneurs are deeply rooted in tradition, yet eager to innovate, and this excites us. By connecting them with practical skills, new ideas, and a network of peers, we’re investing in businesses that feed families, create jobs, and preserve our rich culinary heritage. This is how we make more possible, one vendor, one community at a time.”
Held in partnership with the Bauchi State Association of Caterers and Food Vendors, the workshop featured practical sessions on menu planning, hygiene, pricing, customer service, and food styling.
Attendees also benefited from a live Masterclass led by renowned Nigerian chef, Chef Paulina, who demonstrated elevated approaches to beloved local dishes such as Dafadukan Shinkafa Da Awara.
The day culminated in an exciting cooking challenge, where participants showcased their skills and creativity. Judges provided feedback on taste, plating, and presentation and celebrated all the winners.
Also Justina Stephen, a participant in the workshop and Head Cook and Managing Director of Justfine Restaurants, said: “I am really excited about today’s program and honestly grateful to Nestle. The training has opened my eyes to possibilities I never considered before and showed me how to better plan my menu and even price my meals to increase my profit. It has been a very good experience.”
By deepening its investment in local food ecosystems, Nestlé Professional continues to champion inclusive economic growth, nutrition, and entrepreneurial resilience across Nigeria’s foodservice landscape.
“At Nestlé, our purpose is to unlock the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come. Business of Food is one of the many ways we bring that purpose to life,” added Mr. Awelenje.
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