By George George Idowu
Nestlé Nigeria has announced commencement of sustainability training for 137 children from five primary schools in Ilupeju, Lagos State, through its Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK).
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday.
The N4HK initiative is an annual program aimed at educating over 8,000 children about healthy nutrition, active lifestyles, hygiene, and sustainability with a target of helping 50 million children lead healthier lives by 2030.
The initiative emphasizes the importance of promoting healthier choices and providing children with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions.
This approach not only benefits their well-being but also contributes to creating a sustainable future, aligning with Nestlé’s commitment to creating shared value for individuals, families, communities, and the planet.
Uwadoka expressed delight at the program’s positive impact. She said: “By instilling a sense of environmental responsibility at an early age, we are nurturing a generation that will actively contribute to a more sustainable future.”
She also acknowledged the collaboration with the International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI) and Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) for their commitment to raising a healthier generation.
The founder of ICCDI, Olumide Idowu, highlighted the importance of the training, saying, “In partnership with Nestlé Nigeria, we have trained and instilled responsibility and awareness in children about their environmental impact. This promotes sustainable habits, empowers informed choices, and cultivates a mind-set of environmental stewardship.”
On the part of the Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Circular Economy, Mrs. Titi Oshodi, she underscored the program’s significance.
She said: “By empowering children to make informed choices, addressing issues like malnutrition, and promoting sustainable practices, we can pave the way for a brighter, healthier future. It is truly a privilege to be associated with an initiative that holds such profound significance for our generation’s future.”
Beyond education, Nestlé Nigeria emphasizes responsible sourcing, protection of human rights, and environmental conservation.
The company actively engages in rural community development through initiatives such as the Nestlé Scholarship Scheme, which targets youth development in education, and the provision of WASH facilities to promote access to water and hygiene.
