Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has extended its flagship Business of Food workshop series to Bauchi State, empowering over 250 food vendors, canteen operators, grillers, and caterers with vital culinary and business skills to thrive in Nigeria’s growing foodservice sector.
Now in its 11th edition, the Business of Food workshop is Nestlé Professional’s platform for empowering micro, small, and medium-scale food vendors with the skills and confidence to run profitable, sustainable businesses while serving meals that are both nutritious and prepared to the highest hygiene standards.
Designed in response to the challenges faced by operators in Nigeria’s vibrant but highly competitive foodservice sector, the program blends hands-on culinary training, business management insights, and peer-to-peer networking. Since its launch, it has reached more than 2,600 food vendors in 11 states, helping them enhance their menus, grow customer loyalty, and improve their livelihoods.Speaking at the event, Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager, Nestlé Professional Nigeria, shared the vision behind the initiative:
“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. By connecting them with practical skills, new ideas, and a network of peers, we’re investing in businesses that feed families, create jobs, and preserve our rich culinary heritage.
This is how we make more possible, one vendor, one community at a time.”Held in partnership with the Bauchi State Association of Caterers and Food Vendors, the workshop featured practical sessions on menu planning, hygiene, pricing, customer service, and food styling.
Attendees also benefited from a live Masterclass led by renowned Nigerian chef, Chef Paulina, who demonstrated elevated approaches to beloved local dishes such as Dafadukan Shinkafa Da Awara.The day culminated in an exciting cooking challenge, where participants showcased their skills and creativity. Judges provided feedback on taste, plating, and presentation and celebrated all the winners.