Nestlé Nigeria has restated its dedication to empowering young Nigerians through entrepreneurship and innovation.

The company made this commitment at the National Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Summit 2026 held in Abuja. Nestlé believes that supporting young people with skills and opportunities is key to national development and economic growth.

The Head of Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability at Nestlé Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka, spoke at the event themed “Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Courage and Impact.”

She noted that young people make up more than 70 per cent of Nigeria’s population, making their empowerment essential for the country’s future. Uwadoka encouraged participants to turn their ideas into real businesses and embrace continuous learning and resilience.

Nestlé Nigeria has partnered with the Activate Success International Foundation for eight years to advance youth entrepreneurship through mentorship, skills development, and enterprise support.

The collaboration has helped many young Nigerians develop business ideas and connect with industry leaders and potential investors. The company praised the foundation for its consistent efforts in organising the summit for the ninth consecutive year.

The summit brought together policymakers, business executives, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs to discuss practical solutions to unemployment and economic inclusion. Participants were equipped with knowledge, networks, and confidence to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses. Nestlé and other partners expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s youth and their ability to drive progress.

This initiative reflects Nestlé’s broader commitment to creating an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs. The company continues to support programmes that promote innovation and enterprise development across the country. As more young people gain the tools to succeed, the impact on Nigeria’s economy and society is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper