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By Chinyere Anyanwu
In furtherance of its commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship and boosting the economy, Nestlé Professional, the Out of Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has organised the 8th edition of the “Business of Food” workshop for food vendors in Sokoto.
The programme, which has already transformed and equipped over 1,900 food businesses across seven states, aims to deliver essential skills and knowledge to food vendors, helping them enhance their businesses and increase their income.
According to Nestlé Professional, food vendors, including canteens, grillers, Maishais and bukas, are pivotal in serving low-income communities in Nigeria. These vendors not only provide daily nutrition to bustling urban areas but also represent one of the fastest-growing sectors catering to the needs of Nigerian consumers. Despite their importance, many of these vendors struggle due to lack of necessary support and resources to thrive. Recognising this gap, Nestlé Professional designed the “Business of Food” workshop to empower these vendors through networking, upskilling and training on various crucial aspects of the food industry.
The Business Manager for Nestlé Professional in Nigeria, Mrs. Funmi Osineye, highlighted the comprehensive approach of the workshop. “We are thrilled to bring this Business of Food workshop to Sokoto because we recognise that the business of food extends beyond preparing delicious meals. It involves a focus on nutrition, pricing, presentation, taste and hygiene. Our goal is to support food vendors of all sizes by providing them with the knowledge and tools derived from our global insights and local experience. We are confident this will foster lasting change and growth within the local food vendor community, as witnessed in previous locations.”
The half-day training session was packed with valuable content tailored to the unique needs of local food vendors. One of the highlights was a masterclass by Chef Faridah on the preparation of Masa and Miyan Duka. This dish, deeply rooted in northern Nigerian culinary traditions, offered participants a taste of tradition, history, and community. Chef Faridah’s demonstration not only showcased culinary techniques but also emphasised the importance of preserving cultural heritage through food.
Another exciting aspect of the workshop was a cooking competition designed to foster a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition among the participants. Teams ‘Chicken’ and ‘Star’ went head-to-head to create the best jollof spaghetti dish, showcasing their creativity and skills. The competition was not just about winning but also about learning from each other and honing their culinary prowess.
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In addition to these activities, the workshop focused heavily on the practical aspects of running a food business. Topics such as menu planning, customer engagement and maintaining good hygiene practices were covered in detail. The emphasis on hygiene was particularly significant, as good hygiene practices are critical in ensuring the safety and satisfaction of customers, which in turn can lead to increased business success.
Mrs. Osineye assured participants of Nestlé Professional’s ongoing commitment to supporting the growth and success of food vendors in Nigeria: “We aim to make more possible by uplifting the local food industry, promoting entrepreneurship and creating a positive impact in communities. By providing food vendors with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, we hope to see them thrive and contribute even more to their local economies.”
Nestlé Professional’s initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster inclusivity and sustainability in the food industry. The workshop featured a special category for young people with disabilities, underscoring the company’s dedication to diversity and inclusion. By creating opportunities for all, Nestlé Professional aims to build a more resilient and vibrant food vendor community across Nigeria.
The impact of the “Business of Food” workshop extends beyond immediate skill building. It fosters a network of empowered food vendors who can share knowledge, support each other, and collectively elevate the standards of the industry. This community-building aspect is vital for sustained growth and development.
As the event concluded, participants expressed their gratitude and excitement for the future. Many noted that the workshop had not only provided them with new skills but also inspired them to innovate and improve their businesses. The combination of practical training, cultural appreciation and competitive spirit created an enriching experience that will likely have lasting benefits.
Nestlé Professional’s “Business of Food” workshop in Sokoto is a testament to the company’s commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth. Through continuous support and innovative initiatives, Nestlé Professional aims to create a thriving food vendor community that can meet the diverse needs of Nigerian consumers.
