Cosmos Trade Nigeria Limited is positioning Nigeria as a rising hub for culinary tourism through its innovative Gelato and Coffee University, aiming to empower entrepreneurs and enrich the country’s hospitality sector. The training institution, recently certified as the 13th Carpigiani Gelato University in the world, was showcased at a Lagos exhibition, where the company underscored its ambition to merge food innovation with tourism development.
Speaking at the event, the company’s Business Development Manager described the initiative as a strategic opportunity to boost Nigeria’s global tourism appeal. He noted that the university would contribute to building a stronger food and beverage ecosystem in Nigeria by equipping participants with practical skills in coffee and gelato production.
According to him, Cosmos Trade identified a knowledge gap in the hospitality space, where many aspiring entrepreneurs lack the training to succeed. The company responded by establishing a facility that offers structured hands-on courses ranging from three days to two weeks. These courses, which cover beginner to advanced levels, are priced competitively compared to similar international programmes, making them accessible to a wider African audience.
The training initiative is designed not only for Nigerians but also for participants across Africa and the Middle East. By extending its reach beyond national borders, Cosmos Trade hopes to position Nigeria as a regional centre for culinary excellence and innovation.
Cosmos Trade also plays a broader role in the food and beverage industry by supplying equipment and raw materials for gelato, tea, and coffee production. The company introduced Nigeria’s office coffee vending system and continues to offer machines, consumables, and technical support. It sees growing demand for hot beverages and related services as an emerging opportunity within the market.
At the exhibition, local business owners and trainees shared testimonials about their experiences. A Lagos-based café owner praised the quality and reliability of the company’s products and after-sales service, stating that the performance of the machines had exceeded expectations. Another participant, a student at the university, said the training had expanded his understanding of recipe formulation, ingredient balance, and the commercial aspects of gelato production. His company, already active in food and beverages, is now venturing into gelato to stay competitive.
Cosmos Trade’s leadership is also seeking broader partnerships to scale the impact of the university. The business development manager called for increased collaboration with government institutions, development banks, and nonprofit organisations to further promote Nigeria’s culinary landscape as a viable tourism asset. He expressed interest in partnering with institutions like the Bank of Industry to create more visibility for Nigeria as a destination for food-based travel experiences.
The company believes that through these collaborations and continued investment in skill development, Nigeria can build a stronger reputation in the global hospitality market while unlocking economic opportunities for its youth and entrepreneurs.
