Nestlé Nigeria recently celebrated the graduation of ten young trainees from its Technical Training Centre (TTC) in Agbara, highlighting its ongoing dedication to youth empowerment and skill development. This graduation marks the second stream of the seventh batch of the program, which has been a cornerstone of Nestlé’s investment in Nigerian youth since its inception in 2011.
Nestlé has invested over six billion naira in upskilling young Nigerians through this program, showcasing its commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals. The TTC’s rigorous 18-month program combines theoretical and practical engineering education, culminating in the City and Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification, which significantly enhances the employability of participants.
With this latest graduation, the total number of graduates from the Agbara TTC this year reaches thirty, adding to the over 190 young professionals who have completed the program since it began. Impressively, 97% of these graduates have been employed within Nestlé Nigeria, underscoring the program’s success and its positive impact on youth employment.
At the graduation ceremony, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director/CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, stated, “Our investment in upskilling these bright young minds over the last 13 years not only reflects our firm belief in the potential of the next generation but our commitment to enabling them to thrive. By bridging the technical skills gap in the industry, we are not only enhancing the employability of our youth but also empowering them to achieve financial independence, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and society at large. This is one of the ways we are creating shared value.”
Beyond the TTC, Nestlé’s commitment to youth empowerment extends through its Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative, launched in 2013. This platform focuses on four pillars: getting youth hired, skilled, supported, and providing them with more opportunities. Through various programs under this banner, Nestlé reaches an average of 25,000 youths annually.
Mr. Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized, “We are playing our part to cushion the impact of economic challenges on the youth and prepare them for the future. Some of these initiatives include our Nesternship Program, Nestlé Youth Development Program, and our active participation in the Alliance for Youth Nigeria initiative. In all, we reach over 25,000 youth annually.” He also noted that all graduates in this batch had been employed by Nestlé Nigeria, acknowledging their dedication and excellence.
Professor Abayomi Adelaja Arigbabu, State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, commended the Nestlé TTC for its role in empowering young minds. He praised the graduates, saying, “Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be proud of your achievements. The skills and training you have acquired in the Nestlé Technical Training Centre are powerful tools that can shape your future and open doors to new possibilities. Strive for excellence in all your endeavors and make a positive impact in your chosen field.”
The ceremony was also attended by His Excellency, the Alagbara of Agbara, Oba Lukman Jayeola Agunbiade, and representatives from the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the success of the Technical Training Program.
Nestlé Nigeria’s Technical Training Centre continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for young Nigerians, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce. The company’s substantial investment in youth empowerment reflects its commitment to fostering a future generation of skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the Nigerian economy and society.
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