By Ayomide Otitoju
Nestlé Professional, in collaboration with the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) and the Association of Professional Chefs Nigeria (APCN), joined chefs worldwide to mark International Chefs Day 2025 under the theme “Food Explorers.”
The celebration, held on October 21, 2025, at Nestlé’s Sagamu Factory in Ogun State, brought together 10 professional chefs and 40 pupils from Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK) beneficiary schools for an engaging day focused on nutrition, creativity, and sustainability.
The children participated in activities ranging from planting seeds in the factory’s garden to preparing colourful, balanced meals in the training kitchen, experiencing the complete journey of food “from farm to table.” Guided by the chefs, they learned how healthy eating can be both fun and environmentally conscious.
Speaking at the event, Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager, Nestlé Professional, highlighted the goal of the initiative.
“International Chefs Day gives us the opportunity to celebrate those who create exceptional meals and to inspire the next generation of chefs to make healthier food choices. At Nestlé, we believe nutrition, creativity, and sustainability go hand in hand in shaping a healthier future,” he said.
Chef Cyril Agbachom, Team Lead of the APCN delegation, praised the enthusiasm of the participating children.
“Teaching school children about healthy diets through practical, hands-on experiences helps them appreciate nutritious ingredients while having fun in the kitchen. It’s about sparking curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love for good, healthy food,” he remarked.
The pupils also took part in a gardening session led by Mrs. Halimat Adeniji, Deputy Director, Department of Agriculture and Food Systems, who demonstrated how to grow and care for local fruits and vegetables.
“Catching them young is key to achieving food security,” she said. “When children learn to cultivate and enjoy locally grown foods, they develop lifelong healthy habits and appreciation for nutritious eating.”
At the end of the event, each pupil received a plant pot and recipe card as keepsakes to reinforce the lessons learned and encourage continued exploration of food and nutrition.
Since 2014, Nestlé Professional and APCN have collaborated to promote healthy eating and nutrition education among Nigerian children. The partnership complements Nestlé’s global Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK) programme, which aims to help 50 million children lead healthier lives by 2030.
Through initiatives like International Chefs Day, Nestlé continues to inspire young minds to make informed food choices that support their wellbeing, empower families, and build stronger, healthier communities—one meal at a time.
