Lagos Continental Hotel has signed a strategic partnership with DGIC International Business Services Limited to empower Nigerian youth through structured, practical hospitality training.
The initiative underscores a joint commitment to skills development, job creation, and building a stronger workforce for Nigeria’s future.
DGIC is the service unit of Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria
The programme will offer selected young Nigerians hands-on exposure within the premium, five-star environment of Lagos Continental Hotel.
Participants will move from theory to practice, learning directly from experienced hospitality professionals across key hotel operations.
This collaboration highlights the critical role of public-private partnerships in advancing capacity building. It also supports Nigeria’s agenda to equip young people with employable skills for careers in hospitality, entrepreneurship, and broader economic development.
Mr. Adedotun Adeoye, Head of Competence Centre, Skills Development at DGIC International Business Services Ltd, explained: “This partnership falls under the African Skills for Germany programme, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy [BMWE]. Young Nigerians selected for the programme will first receive practical hospitality training at Lagos Continental Hotel before advancing to Germany for a three-year vocational training programme.
The goal, he pointed out is to provide real workplace experience, strengthen technical and professional skills, and prepare participants for entry into Germany’s globally respected vocational system.”[AS4G]
According to Mr. Christopher Schleissing, General Manager, Lagos Continental Hotel:
“Our people are at the heart of excellence and sustainable growth. Through this partnership with DGIC, we are investing in the next generation of hospitality professionals.”
He noted that by merging academic learning with hands-on experience, we are preparing service-focused talent to succeed in a fast-changing industry. adding that the effort also promotes sustainable workforce development and contributes to Nigeria’s socio-economic progress.”
Also speaking, Niyi Agoro, Cluster Director of Human Resources, Lagos Continental Hotel, said:
“Human capital remains our most valuable asset. This partnership with DGIC reflects our dedication to building a pipeline of future-ready talent. By combining classroom knowledge with immersive workplace training, we are nurturing competent, service-driven professionals ready for the demands of modern hospitality.
Beyond meeting industry needs, he says s the initiative advances sustainable workforce development and supports Nigeria’s transformation through deliberate investment in its people.
He concluded: The energy and ambition of Nigeria’s youth are our greatest strength. As industry leaders, we must convert that potential into real opportunity through experience, mentorship, and development. This partnership is proof of what’s possible when business and development institutions collaborate for the good of Nigerian youth.”
As part of the agreement, DGIC will select and prepare participants, while Lagos Continental Hotel will deliver practical training across its operations. Participants will develop technical skills, workplace confidence, and familiarity with international hospitality standards.
This partnership further strengthens Nigeria’s hospitality talent pipeline and demonstrates the impact of industry-led capacity building.
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