By Atoyebi Nike
Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business unit of Nestlé Nigeria, says it has empowered more than 2,600 food vendors across 11 states since launching its Business of Food workshop series.
The latest edition held in Bauchi State brought together 250 canteen operators, caterers, and food vendors for hands-on training aimed at improving culinary and business practices.
Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager at Nestlé Professional Nigeria, said the initiative was designed to help small food businesses thrive in the country’s competitive food service sector.
“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,” he said.
The training covered menu planning, hygiene, pricing, customer service, and food styling, with a live masterclass by Chef Paulina, who demonstrated creative twists to traditional dishes like Dafadukan Shinkafa Da Awara.
Participants also competed in a cooking challenge, with winners recognised for creativity and presentation.
Justina Stephen, Managing Director of Justfine Restaurants, praised the programme:
“The training opened my eyes to possibilities I never considered before and showed me how to plan my menu and price my meals better to increase profit.”
Nestlé said the series has consistently helped vendors enhance menus, attract customer loyalty, and build stronger livelihoods. The company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s food service industry through innovation, improved nutrition, and sustainable income opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs.
