Nigerian Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John has extended a call to the private sector, culinary schools, and industry stakeholders to unite with the government in ensuring the resounding success of Mobile Training Kitchen Initiatives.
She made the call while launching the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Mobile Training Kitchen in Abuja on Tuesday, said this will significantly contribute to advancement of trade and catering services in communities where NIHOTOUR campuses are not yet established.
According to her, “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”, she said.
Ade-John harped that the Mobile Training Kitchen signifies the commencement of a series of transformative initiatives within the hospitality sector. “This innovative project underscores the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and highlights the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering growth.
“Empowerment, and culinary excellence within our great nation. Nigeria’s cultural diversity and culinary heritage have long
been a source of pride for our people, both within the country, diaspora, and among the global consumer. Our cuisine mirrors the vibrancy of our communities, showcasing unique flavours that define us”.
She noted that the unveiling of the Mobile Training Kitchen marks a pivotal moment in the journey to further elevate the culinary skills, promote tourism, and empower the citizens worldwide, establishing Nigeria as a recognised centre of excellence.
Adding that the Mobile Training Kitchen transcends its role as a mere vehicle; but stands as a symbol of inspiration and opportunity for communities across Nigeria. “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”.
She said, “The initiative aligns seamlessly with our vision to leverage the potential of our rich culinary heritage, cultivating skilled professionals who can significantly contribute to the growth of the tourism sector.
“Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the mobile kitchen ensures that our trainees receive top-notch education and practical experience. The curriculum encompasses a wide array of training that will enhance the culinary skills of traditional Nigerian dishes, catering to the diverse tastes within Nigeria and a global audience.
“Collaborating with local communities for the sourcing of fresh, locally-produced ingredients not only enhances the quality of our dishes but also promotes sustainable practices and supports local farmers, contributing to the economic development of our communities”, the Minister stated.
She expressed her deepest gratitude to all those who have been instrumental in bringing this visionary project to life, with a special mention to NIHOTOUR who have taken it upon themselves to deliver the Mobile Training Kitchen.
“Together, let us kindle the flame of gastronomic excellence, celebrate our unique flavours, and firmly establish Nigeria as a global culinary destination,” she prayed that this Mobile Training Kitchen serve as a continued beacon, promoting Nigeria’s prosperity and culinary brilliance for generations to come.
In his remarks, the NIHOTOUR Director-General, Nura Sani Kangiwa said the Agency’s 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 underlies the acquisition of this Mobile Training Kitchen Truck.
He said, “As at today, NIHOTOUR is strategically located in 10 campuses across the six geopolitical zones of the country. Many of these campuses are in metropolis and so there is a need to reach people in the hinterland.
“It is our belief that the Mobile Training Kitchen Truck will not only contribute significantly to achieving our goal of taking training closer to stakeholders, but also enhance our market presence, and expand our reach within the industry”, Kingiwa added.
The DG pointed out that Tourism and Hospitality has the vibrancy and potency to help the government achieve the goal of Job Creation which is one of the key areas in which Mr. President’s administration hopes to leave an indelible mark.
“There are a lot of entrepreneurial skills people can acquire in the subsectors of tourism and hospitality such as tour guiding, tour operation, travel agency operation, event management, hospitality management, pastry and cookery practice, etc.
“In a world of unemployment, these skills will translate into gainful employment, employer of labour, self- reliance, wealth creation for the youths and above all, end restlessness which is usually associated with poverty”, the NIHOTOUR Boss said.
Kingiwa thanked the honorable Minister HM for finding time out of her busy schedule to launch the initiative. “Your presence here with us is indicative of the importance you attached to training as an indispensable catalyst for growth, development towards the evolution of a vibrant Tourism and Hospitality sector.
“Thank you ma. I cannot fail to acknowledge and thank our Permanent Secretary too. We really appreciate your coming sir. To you our stakeholders, we could not have come this far without your backing and support. We promise you that we will continue to live up to your expectation and even beyond”, the DG said.
The NIHOTOUR Mobile Training Kitchen is designed to be 95 per cent eco-friendly, as all equipment and power generators on board the truck run on LPG. Only the Vehicle engine runs on Diesel.
The equipment in the motorised kitchen includes professional catering 5 burner gas cooker, double door tower fridge with ice maker and crusher, display fridge and freezer for ice cream, and gas-powered double deep fryer.