By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully trained and empowered 100 young Nigerians in culinary and hospitality skills. This initiative was conducted under the “Innovation, Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills” (IDEAS) project. The primary goal of the program is to tackle the rising unemployment rates and bridge critical skills gaps within the country’s hospitality sector.

The comprehensive six-month training program was implemented by the Masterminds Catering and Culinary Institute Academy. This was achieved through a strategic partnership between the Federal Ministry of Education and the World Bank.

The curriculum was designed to be rigorous, combining intensive theoretical classroom learning with hands-on practical industry experience to ensure well-rounded development.

During the closing ceremony held in Abuja, Khadijat Fashina, the CEO of Masterminds Catering and Culinary Institute, highlighted the motivation behind the academy. She noted a significant shortage of skilled professionals in the catering industry, which often hindered the growth of local entrepreneurs. The academy’s focus is specifically aimed at closing this professional gap to boost the local economy.

The training structure ensured that participants were not just taught basic cooking, but were exposed to the “real-world” demands of the industry. Fashina emphasized that by the end of the program, the 100 beneficiaries were better positioned to either launch their own independent businesses or secure high-quality employment within the competitive hospitality market.

To maintain high standards, the participants were trained under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). This framework ensures that the certification received by the youths is standardized and competency-based. Such accreditation provides the graduates with recognized credentials that are valid and respected across the hospitality industry both locally and internationally.

Ayomide Adeagbo, the Special Assistant to the President on Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, also spoke at the event. He remarked that the initiative reflects a necessary shift toward a skills-driven economy. He noted that the global workforce is moving away from traditional nine-to-five roles, making practical talents and vocational skills more valuable than ever before.

In his concluding remarks, Adeagbo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in the youth through the “Renewed Hope” agenda. He stated that mechanisms have already been established to provide post-training support to the beneficiaries.

This ensures that the newly acquired skills are effectively utilized to drive national productivity and individual self-reliance.