Nestlé Empowers 49 Women Retailers in Agbara to Boost Grassroots Economy

 Nestlé Nigeria has expanded its flagship women empowerment initiative to Agbara, Ogun State, enrolling 49 new female retailers in its Empowering Rural Women in Nigeria program.

Now in its fifth year, the program is aimed at strengthening small businesses in underserved communities through business training, product grants, and mentorship. With the latest additions, the initiative has now supported 431 women across nine locations nationwide.

Speaking at the launch event in Agbara, Nestlé Nigeria’s Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead, Victoria Uwadoka, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative.

“This program is about opening doors for women who are determined to create better futures. By supporting them to grow their retail businesses by up to 300% in just three months, we’re also strengthening families and building resilient communities,” she said.

Uwadoka noted that Agbara holds special significance as one of Nestlé’s long-standing operational bases in Nigeria.

“For over four decades, Agbara has been home to Nestlé Nigeria. Bringing this initiative here reinforces our commitment to inclusive growth within our host communities,” she added.

Commercial Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, Boladale Odunlami, explained that the initiative, launched in 2021, is part of the company’s broader strategy to empower women across its value chain.

“Over 85% of previous participants have reported sustained business expansion. Each new beneficiary in Agbara will receive product grants worth ₦200,000—about 300% of their current stock value,” he said. “These women were nominated by their own communities, making the initiative even more locally relevant.”

Representing the Alagbara of Agbara, Oba Lukman Jayeola Agunbiade JP, Olori Adeola Agunbiade praised Nestlé for its consistent support and encouraged the women to take full advantage of the opportunity.

“Our community has a strong, respectful relationship with Nestlé. This program reflects that partnership, and we are proud to see our women benefit,” she said.

One of the participants, Mrs. Eniola Fausat, expressed her appreciation:

“This training has given me confidence and clarity about how to grow my shop. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity.”

Participants will undergo structured training in entrepreneurship, bookkeeping, merchandising, and customer service. Each woman will also receive three months of mentorship and product grants to support business growth.

Nestlé’s Empowering Rural Women in Nigeria initiative continues to drive economic inclusion by helping rural women achieve financial independence and contribute meaningfully to their communities.