Victor EzejaNestlé Professional, a business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has empowered over 2,600 food vendors in 11 states across the country with vital culinary and business skills to thrive in Nigeria’s growing foodservice sector.
At the 11th edition of Nestlé Professional’s Business of Food workshop series organised in Bauchi State, 250 food vendors, canteen operators, grillers, and caterers were empowered.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe workshop serves as a 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.
The program blends hands-on culinary training, business management insights, and peer-to-peer networking.
Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager, Nestlé Professional Nigeria, shared the vision behind the initiative: “Our goal is to see food vendors in Nigeria not just survive but thrive.”
Awelenje commended food entrepreneurs in Bauchi, noting that despite being deeply rooted in tradition, they are eager to innovate with modern food trends.
“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,” he stated.
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 concluded with an exciting cooking challenge in which participants demonstrated their abilities and creativity. Judges gave feedback on taste, plating, and presentation and congratulated all winners.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
