NBC Boosts Youth Hospitality Skills and Entrepreneurship Development

Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), a member of the Coca‑Cola HBC Group, has deepened its commitment to youth empowerment and the hospitality sector by serving as the headline sponsor of the International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco‑Sustainability Forum (IHTEF) 2026 in Abuja.

Continuing its partnership with the annual forum, NBC and Schweppes co‑sponsored the Bartender Academy, a specialized training and talent‑development program that equips emerging hospitality professionals with practical skills, mentorship, and entrepreneurial prospects.

The event opened with a keynote address by Dr. Soromidayo George, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at NBC, titled “Driving Sustainable Value Chains: Corporate Leadership in Africa’s Hospitality Future.”

In his speech, Dr. George underscored the growing importance of resilient value chains, local supplier development, and long‑term business resilience in shaping Africa’s hospitality future.

Referencing examples from global hospitality leaders, the keynote highlighted sustainability and ESG integration as key drivers of long‑term resilience, competitiveness, and economic growth within the sector.

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, travel and tourism are major drivers of employment and economic growth across Africa, especially for young people and small businesses. NBC’s involvement in IHTEF reflects the company’s broader commitment to initiatives that expand economic opportunity, entrepreneurship, and skills development for young Nigerians.