By Taiye Olayemi
Lagos, April 22, 2026
Nestlé Nigeria Plc has recorded a 98 per cent employment rate for graduates of its technical training programme, highlighting the impact of its investment in youth skills development.
The company disclosed this at the graduation of 20 trainees from its Flowergate Technical Training Centre, held to mark the 15th anniversary of the initiative.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Nestlé said the programme, which began in 2011 at its Agbara factory, had trained 309 young Nigerians across its centres in Agbara, Flowergate and Abaji.
It noted that the initiative, part of the global “Nestlé Needs YOUth” programme launched in 2013, has attracted over N6 billion in investment and is designed to enhance employability and create career opportunities for young people.
According to the company, the 18-month programme combines classroom learning with hands-on technical training in food technology, engineering and manufacturing operations, leading to the internationally recognised City and Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, said the programme aligns with the company’s broader goal of creating shared value through capacity building.
He noted that the initiative had, over the years, strengthened industry capabilities while providing young Nigerians with practical skills and employment pathways.
“We are investing in the future of our industry and communities by equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed,” he said.
Also speaking, the Country Human Resource Manager, Mr. Shakiru Lawal, said the programme had become a critical talent pipeline for the company.
He added that Nestlé’s youth-focused initiatives across Central and West Africa were aimed at building skills, creating opportunities and strengthening industry capacity.
Lawal noted that the high employment rate of graduates reflects the programme’s effectiveness in preparing participants for the workplace.
In his remarks, the valedictorian, Mr. Samuel Oladokun, said the training had equipped graduates with technical competence, discipline and confidence required to thrive in industrial environments.
He expressed appreciation to the company for the opportunity, noting that the programme had prepared them for meaningful careers.
Also, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remo Land, Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, who was represented, commended the initiative for its positive impact on host communities and youth development.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, also lauded the company for supporting government efforts in skills development and youth empowerment.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Regional Human Resource Manager, Nestlé Nigeria, Ms. Antoinette Arkoh; Ogun State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka; and the Consul General of Switzerland, Ms. Conny Camenzind.
Representatives of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment, the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association, and the Alliance for Youth initiative also attended the ceremony.
