Today, the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John launched the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism mobile training kitchen truck. The first of its kind in this clime.
The Mobile Training Kitchen is an initiative of NIHOTOUR headed by the Director General, Alhaji Nura Kangiwa.
The Minister said at the event, that the project is a pointer to “Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and highlights the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering growth, empowerment, and culinary excellence. The mobile training kitchen signifies the commencement of a series of transformative initiatives within the hospitality sector.
“Today’s unveiling of the Mobile Training Kitchen marks a pivotal moment in our journey to further elevate our culinary skills, promote tourism, and empower our citizens worldwide, establishing Nigeria as a recognised centre of excellence.
“The Mobile Training Kitchen transcends its role as a mere vehicle; it stands as a symbol of inspiration and opportunity for communities across the nation. This mobile unit will be one of many to traverse urban and rural areas, delivering hands-on culinary training to aspiring local cooks, food enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs.”
The Minister also called for support for the government of the day:
“As we continue on this transformative journey, I extend a call to the
private sector, culinary schools, and industry stakeholders to unite with
the government in ensuring the resounding success of initiatives like
this. Your support is crucial in making projects like the Mobile Training
Kitchen a source of motivation, nurturing a new generation of skilled
cooks poised to not only tantalise taste buds but also propel the growth
of our hospitality and tourism sectors.”
Speaking further at the event, The DG of NIHOTOUR, Nura Kangiwa, added that the mobile training kitchen truck, “is our commitment to the growth of the Hospitality and Tourism sector in Nigeria and by extension, improvement in the quality of service delivery by personnel that run the sector underlines the acquisition of the mobile truck.
“As of today, NIHOTOUR is strategically located in 10 campuses across the six geopolitical zones of the country. Many of these campuses are in the metropolis so there is a need to reach people in the hinterland.
“We believe that the Mobile Training Kitchen Truck will not only contribute significantly to achieving our goal of taking training closer to the stakeholders, but also enhance our market presence, and expand our reach within the industry.”
The DG Nihotour went further to thank the Honourable Minister; “Let me at this juncture thank the HM for finding time out of her busy schedule to join us today. Incidentally, this is your first outing and we are glad it’s with NIHOTOUR. Your presence here with us is indicative of the importance you attached to training as an indispensable catalyst for growth and development towards the evolution of a vibrant Tourism and Hospitality sector.”
* Paul Ukpabio is Nigeria’s Tourism Writer Of The Year 2023
