As the hospitality industry continues to face a shortage of skilled professionals, culinary experts gathered in Lagos for the inaugural Chef Conference 1.0, urging greater investment in culinary education to address Nigeria’s rising unemployment rate.

Themed “The Future of Culinary Careers: Connecting Talents with Demand,” the conference brought together seasoned chefs, industry stakeholders, as well as training institutions,

Chef Tobias Igwe, CEO of Speedmeals Culinary School and convener of the event, emphasized at the event that culinary education offers a path to employment and economic advancement.

He said, “With proper training, young people can build fulfilling careers.

We must stop importing culinary talents and start developing our own,” Igwe stressed.

A key highlight of the chef conference was the award of 11 full culinary scholarships, along with on-the-spot job placements for select participants.

Speakers at the conference included Chef Martin Chetty (Lagos Continental Hotel), Chef Robin (Four Points by Sheraton Lagos), and Chef Amaka (AfroFusion Chef).

The event was also attended by the President of the Culinary Practitioners Association of Nigeria.

Speedmeals Culinary School has trained over 1,000 young people, many of whom are now employed across Nigeria’s top hospitality businesses.