Prime Highlights- 

• More than 80 per cent of past participants have sustained and expanded their businesses, reporting higher turnover and larger inventories.  

• Women make up roughly 60 per cent of Nestle Nigeria’s retail distribution network, making their success key to the company’s operations. 

Key Facts- 

• Nestle Nigeria supports 50 female retailers in Zaria with training, mentorship and stock grants.  

• The programme has now reached 482 women across Nigeria since its launch. 

Background- 

Nestle Nigeria has supported 50 female micro-retailers in Zaria, Kaduna State, with specialised business training, three months of mentorship and product grants worth triple their existing stock, helping them build sustainable enterprises.

The company shared the update during the fifth anniversary and tenth edition of its Empowering Rural Women Initiative.

Commercial Manager Boladale Odunlami said the initiative reflects Nestle’s belief that women contributing to its growth should also have the chance to grow with the company.

He added that investing in their skills and strengthening their businesses helps raise their earning potential while building a stronger, more capable retail network.

With the Zaria group included, the programme has now reached 482 women across Nigeria. Tracking data from earlier phases shows that more than 80 per cent of participants have sustained and expanded their businesses, reporting higher turnover, larger inventories and improved financial management skills.

Nestle said women make up roughly 60 per cent of its retail distribution network, making their success important to its wider operations. The training covers bookkeeping, inventory control, customer service and merchandising.

Over the next three months, mentors and local distribution partners will guide participants in applying their new skills and reinvesting profits for long-term growth.