Salamatu Ejembi, Lagos
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s food and nutrition sector have taken practical steps to guide children on the journey from farm to table, as part of activities marking this year’s International Chefs Day.
At the event, held in Ogun State, forty primary school pupils were given hands-on lessons in nutrition, gardening, and cooking during a practical session led by Mrs Halimat Adeniji, Deputy Director, Department of Agriculture and Food Systems.
The initiative was a collaborative effort by Nestlé Professional, the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs), and the Association of Professional Chefs Nigeria (APCN).
The event, themed “Food Explorers,” brought together the next generation of eaters with ten professional chefs to explore the full journey of food from planting seeds to preparing healthy, balanced meals.
The day offered a complete sensory experience, connecting the children directly to where their meals begin. Starting in the factory garden, the pupils soon got their hands dusted with soil as they learned how to plant and nurture local Nigerian fruits and vegetables.
According to Mrs Adedeji, “Catching them young is key to achieving food security. When children learn to grow and eat our locally available foods, they not only develop healthier habits but also build a lifelong appreciation for nutritious eating.”
From the earth, the journey moved to the training kitchen, where the pupils transformed into junior culinarians, guided by professional chefs.
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Chef Cyril Agbachom, Team Lead of the APCN delegation, expressed delight at the children’s enthusiasm, saying, “We are thrilled to connect with these young food explorers.”
He added, “Teaching schoolchildren about healthy diets in an engaging, hands-on way helps them understand the value of nutritious ingredients while having fun in the kitchen. It is about inspiring curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love for good, healthy food.”
For Business Manager, Nestlé Professional, Ibraheem Awelenje, the initiative represents a deliberate step towards shaping a healthier future.
He said, “International Chefs Day provides the opportunity to not only celebrate those who curate special meals but also to engage children and nurture the next generation of chefs who are conscious about making healthier meals.”
The Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK) initiative aims to help 50 million children worldwide lead healthier lives by 2030.