Nestlé Empowers 20 Young Nigerians with Technical Skills

‎Nestlé Nigeria has reinforced its dedication to youth empowerment and skills development with the graduation of 20 trainees from the 8th cohort of its Nestlé Technical Training Centre (NTTC), Agbara. The initiative is part of Nestlé Needs YOUth, a global programme launched in 2013 with the ambition of enabling 10 million young people worldwide to access economic opportunities by 2030.

‎Since its establishment in 2011, the Agbara Centre has invested more than ₦6 billion in equipping young Nigerians with technical and vocational expertise in food technology, engineering, and manufacturing operations. The 18-month curriculum blends theoretical and practical engineering education and culminates in the prestigious City and Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification, significantly enhancing graduates’ employability.

‎To date, over 200 young professionals have graduated across Nestlé’s three centres in Agbara, Flowergate, and Abaji factories, with 95% securing employment with Nestlé Nigeria. Many alumni now hold key positions such as Factory Engineers, Engineering Supervisors, and Production Supervisors.

‎Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director/CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, highlighted the life-changing impact of the programme

“Each graduation ceremony is a privilege because it reminds us of the lasting impact of NTTC. From this class, five graduates will embark on an eight-week internship in Switzerland this October, under our partnership with the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria. These opportunities not only empower individuals but also strengthen families, uplift communities, and build Nigeria’s industrial capacity.”

‎Also speaking, Mr. Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized the broader impact of Nestlé Needs YOUth:

“The NTTC is a cornerstone of our commitment to employability, skills development, and access to opportunities. Alongside the training centres, we run initiatives such as the Nesternship Programme, the Nestlé Youth Development Programme, and our active participation in the Alliance for Youth Nigeria. Collectively, these programmes reach an average of 25,000 young Nigerians every year.”

‎In his goodwill message, Mr. Adewale Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), commended the programme’s role in shaping future talent.

‎“This initiative reaffirms our belief that skills are the future of work. I urge the graduands to pursue excellence and make a positive impact in their chosen fields.”

The Alagbara of Agbara, Oba Lukman Jayeola Agunbiade, who was also in attendance, applauded the programme for creating real opportunities for local youth:

“It is heartening to see young people from our community thrive through this initiative. I encourage the graduates to inspire others and continue their personal and professional development.”
‎Through initiatives like the NTTC, Nestlé Nigeria continues to strengthen the country’s industrial workforce, equipping young people with the skills to build sustainable careers while driving national economic growth.

‎About Nestlé Nigeria

‎Nestlé Nigeria is the country’s leading food and beverage company, committed to quality, excellence, and creating shared value. With over 63 years of heritage, three factories, seven branch offices, and more than 2,300 employees, the company produces and markets iconic brands including Maggi, Milo, Golden Morn, Nestlé Pure Life, and Cerelac. Nestlé also supports local communities and prioritises sustainability through responsible business practices.

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