As Nigeria grapples with youth unemployment and skills gap, Nestlé Nigeria Plc has continued to position itself as a leading private sector driver of youth empowerment and development.
From technical training to scholarships and entrepreneurship support, the company's youth investment model is anchored on its global Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative — built on the belief that unlocking potential comes through skills, opportunity, and real pathways to work.
1. Technical Training Centres - From Classroom to Factory
Nestlé's flagship youth programme is its Technical Training Initiative, launched in 2011 at its Agbara Factory and now expanded to Abaji and Flowergate Factory in Sagamu.
In May 2026, the company celebrated 20 new graduates from its Abaji Factory Centre as part of its 15th anniversary celebration, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to over 309 young Nigerians.
The company has invested over ₦6 billion in the programme over the last 15 years.
The 18-month free programme combines classroom learning, practical industrial training, hands-on engineering experience, manufacturing operations and food technology education. At the end, trainees receive the internationally recognised *City and Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification.
According to Nestlé, 98% of graduates have transitioned into employment within Nestlé, making it a major talent pipeline and employment bridge.
2. Community Scholarship Programme
To tackle access to education, Nestlé in 2026 opened applications for its 2026/2027 Community Scholarship Programme* for host communities in Agbara, Sagamu and Abaji.
Since its launch in 2020, more than 250 Science and Technology students have benefitted, with support for tuition, books and school-related costs. Over 70% of tracked beneficiaries are currently maintaining or graduating with First Class Honours.
"At Nestlé, we believe that stronger communities are built by creating opportunities for people to thrive. By empowering students today, we are helping to develop the knowledge and skills that will contribute to Nigeria's growth tomorrow," — Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Nestlé Nigeria.
3. Youth Entrepreneurship — The YEEP Partnership
Nestlé Nigeria, in partnership with Activate Success International Foundation (ASIF), has sustained an eight-year partnership to advance youth entrepreneurship.
At the National Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Summit (YEEP) 2026 held in Abuja themed “Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Courage and Impact”, the company reaffirmed its commitment to building ecosystems that support young Nigerians to turn ideas into viable businesses.
4. Sports for Development - MILO Basketball Championship
Through MILO, Nestlé continues to use sports as a youth development tool. In its 26th edition in 2026, the MILO Basketball Championship reached over 13,000 schools across Nigeria, teaching teamwork, discipline and resilience. A new global partnership with the NBA starting January 1, 2027, will further expand opportunities for young basketball fans in Nigeria.
Why It Matters
With over 70% of Nigeria's population being youths, Nestlé's model shows that youth empowerment is not charity but a development investment — equipping young people with employable skills, academic support, entrepreneurial pathways and life skills for national growth.
No comments:
Post a Comment