Empowering Future Hospitality Leaders: Nigerian Bottling Company at IHTEF 2026

Nigerian Bottling Company has taken centre stage at the International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-Sustainability Forum 2026 in Abuja, reinforcing its commitment to youth empowerment and hospitality industry development as the headline sponsor of the event. The company, a member of Coca-Cola HBC Group, has been a consistent partner of the annual forum, driving initiatives that equip emerging hospitality professionals with practical industry skills. This year's participation is a testament to NBC's dedication to shaping the future of Africa's hospitality industry.

What Happened

Nigerian Bottling Company and Schweppes co-sponsored The Bartender Academy, a specialised training and talent development initiative designed to equip emerging hospitality professionals with practical industry skills, mentorship, and entrepreneurial opportunities. The two-day programme brought together aspiring bartenders and hospitality professionals from across Nigeria for intensive hands-on training focused on mixology, bar presentation, customer experience, and business development within the hospitality sector.

Inside the Rollout

The Bartender Academy featured a keynote address by Dr Soromidayo George, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at Nigerian Bottling Company, titled “Driving Sustainable Value Chains: Corporate Leadership in Africa’s Hospitality Future”. Dr George highlighted the growing importance of resilient value chains, local supplier development, and long-term business resilience in shaping the future of Africa’s hospitality industry. The keynote drew on examples from global hospitality leaders, positioning sustainability and ESG integration as increasingly important drivers of long-term business resilience, competitiveness, and economic growth across the sector.

• The Bartender Academy was a two-day programme
• The event brought together aspiring bartenders and hospitality professionals from across Nigeria
• Keynote address by Dr Soromidayo George, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at Nigerian Bottling Company

Why It Matters

The hospitality industry is a significant driver of employment and economic growth in many African countries, including Nigeria. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, travel and tourism are expected to account for 9.5% of Nigeria's GDP by 2027, creating 1.3 million new jobs. Nigerian Bottling Company's commitment to youth empowerment and hospitality industry development through initiatives like The Bartender Academy is crucial in shaping the future of the industry.

The Takeaway

Nigerian Bottling Company's participation at the International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-Sustainability Forum 2026 is a testament to its dedication to driving sustainable value chains and long-term business resilience in Africa's hospitality industry. With its commitment to youth empowerment and hospitality industry development, NBC is positioning itself as a leader in the sector, driving growth and economic development in Nigeria and beyond.