Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has taken its impactful Business of Food workshop to Bauchi State, equipping more than 250 local food vendors, caterers, grill operators, and canteen managers with vital culinary and business management skills.
Now in its 11th edition, the Business of Food series is designed to empower small and medium-scale food operators to run profitable, hygienic, and sustainable businesses. The program blends hands-on cooking sessions with practical business strategies, enabling participants to deliver nutritious meals while strengthening their livelihoods.
Since its inception, the initiative has reached over 2,600 food vendors across 11 states, helping them expand their menus, improve customer retention, and grow their businesses.
Speaking at the Bauchi edition, Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager, Nestlé Professional Nigeria, reaffirmed the brand’s mission:“Our goal is to see food vendors across Nigeria not only sustain their businesses but also thrive. The food entrepreneurs in Bauchi have a rich culinary culture and an eagerness to innovate. Through this program, we are equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and network to succeed—while preserving the country’s diverse food heritage. One vendor at a time, we’re making more possible for communities across Nigeria.”
The workshop was organized in partnership with the Bauchi State Association of Caterers and Food Vendors. Sessions covered menu innovation, food safety and hygiene, pricing techniques, customer service, and food styling. A highlight was the live masterclass by renowned Nigerian chef, Chef Paulina, who showcased creative ways of reimagining local delicacies such as Dafadukan Shinkafa Da Awara.
The event concluded with a spirited cooking competition where participants demonstrated their creativity, presentation, and culinary skills. Judges commended the efforts of all contestants, noting their enthusiasm and originality.
For many attendees, the program proved eye-opening. Justina Stephen, Head Cook and MD of Justfine Restaurants, said:“This training has been a game-changer. I’ve learned how to improve my menu planning and pricing, which will definitely increase my profit margins. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience.”
By scaling the Business of Food program, Nestlé Professional continues to invest in local food ecosystems, champion inclusive economic growth, and foster resilience among entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s fast-evolving foodservice sector.
Awelenje added:“At Nestlé, we believe in the power of food to enhance quality of life today and for generations to come. The Business of Food is one of the ways we put that belief into action.”