Nestlé, Govt Partner On Dairy Capacity Building

As part of efforts to transform Nigeria’s dairy industry, Nestlé Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to launch a Dairy Technical Skills Development Programme.

The agreement, formalised on World Milk Day 2025, marks a strategic collaboration aimed at equipping the local dairy sector with mid-level technical and vocational skills to enhance milk production and processing across the country.

The initiative is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s dairy value chain by promoting food security, improving nutrition, and creating sustainable livelihoods.

The development programme is expected to focus on capacity building in milk production, hygiene, processing, and farm management. The program also aims to deliver industry-relevant training developed in conjunction with stakeholders and experts in the sector.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria PLC, Wassim Elhusseini, emphasised the importance of targeted skills development tailored to local needs. “This Letter of Intent is more than a formality; it embodies our commitment to bridging the technical skills gap in the dairy sector. By investing in people, we’re improving productivity, creating jobs, and strengthening the economy,” he said.

On his part, minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, reaffirmed the government’s resolve to overhaul the livestock sector under the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy. “We are focused on revamping the dairy value chain and improving feed and fodder systems. Our partnership with Nestlé will support the establishment of a Dairy Training Centre in Paikon Kore, Gwagwalada, where farmers will be equipped with modern techniques to boost yields,” the Minister stated.