By Isaac Daniel

Nestle Professional has intensified its project to foster economic growth among food vendors in Nigeria at the Business of Food workshop in Ilorin.

Over 300 participants including food vendors, chefs, canteen and restaurant operators as well as culinary school students were trained on how to improve their food businesses.

The training covered various aspects of the food industry, including culinary techniques, menu planning, customer engagement, and good hygiene practices. Attendees were able to gain valuable insights from seasoned professionals who shared their expertise and best practices.

Head of Nestlé Professional business in Nigeria, Mrs. Funmi Osineye, said: “This workshop is aligned with our vision to foster economic growth in local communities. Our aim is to equip local food vendors with the essential knowledge and skills to grow and sustain their businesses. We believe that in addition to the practical skills, local entrepreneurs need a supportive environment where they can thrive.

“We therefore designed the workshop to include networking opportunities where participants can exchange ideas, share their experiences, and build valuable connections within the industry.

“We are confident that the training today will equip the food vendors, chefs, canteen and restaurants operators as well as the culinary school students to excel in the business of food,” she said.

One of the highlights of the workshop was the live cooking master class by popular OAP – Olushola Folake Mutiat on the fundamentals of Wanke, a popular West African dish made from a combination of rice and beans, using Maggi Chicken and Maggi Star seasoning.

There was also a cooking competition where the teams – ‘Chicken’ and ‘Star’ – tried to outdo each other in their task to make the best jollof rice dish.

The president of the Association of Caterers and Restaurant Owners in Ilorin, Mrs. Olayinka Atoyebi, thanked Nestlé Professional for the initiative and the opportunity for the members of the association to learn new skills for improving their businesses and livelihoods.

Catering schools present at the workshop include IVTEC, Ajase-Ipo, Imi-Ini Venture and Best Apple Treat. Students of the culinary schools expressed gratitude to Nestlé Professional for the opportunity to meet and learn from accomplished industry practitioners.

Osineye assured participants that Nestlé Professional remains committed to supporting the growth and success of food vendors in Nigeria. “We aim to uplift the local food industry, promote entrepreneurship, and create a positive impact in communities,” she said.