Nestlé Nigeria PLC has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and skill development with the recent graduation of 20 young trainees from the 8th cohort of its Nestlé Technical Training Centre, Agbara, Ogun State.

“Each graduation ceremony is a true privilege because it allows us to witness firsthand the life-changing impact of the Nestlé Technical Training Center.

“Many of our graduates have gone on to build remarkable careers, including one who now serves as a Factory Engineer in Angola, and several others excelling as engineering and production supervisors,” Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director/CEO, Nestlé Nigeria PLC, said in a statement.

According to the statement, the latest graduates completed an 18-month curriculum that blends theoretical and practical engineering education.

Also, five outstanding graduates from the current class will embark on an eight-week internship in Switzerland starting in October, under the framework of the company’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria.

“There, they will sharpen their technical expertise and gain valuable global exposure. These achievements go far beyond individual success; they uplift families, strengthen communities, and contribute to Nigeria’s industrial growth,” Elhusseini stated.

According to him, the initiative is part of the broader ‘Nestlé Needs YOUth’ programme a global commitment launched in 2013 with the goal of enabling 10 million young people worldwide to access economic opportunities by 2030.

He stated that the programme offers comprehensive training in food technology, engineering, and manufacturing operations, giving participants the practical expertise, they need to thrive in today’s industrial landscape. “Since its establishment in 2011, the Nestlé Technical Training Centre, Agbara, has invested more than ₦6 billion in equipping young Nigerians with hands-on technical and vocational skills.

“By empowering youth with employable skills, the initiative not only supports individual growth but also contributes to Nigeria’s industrial capacity and sustainable economic development.”

Adewale Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General, Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), highlighted the centre’s role in shaping future talent. This programme reaffirms our belief that skills are the future of work, especially for young people in today’s competitive environment.

“To the graduands, I extend heartfelt congratulations. Strive for excellence in your endeavors, uphold values of consistency, and make a positive impact in your chosen fields,” stated Oyerinde, who was represented by Adenike Aderonke, Director of Social and Labour Affairs.