As part of efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and expand awareness of beekeeping in Nigeria, stakeholders gathered in Abuja on Wednesday for the 2026 World Bee Day celebration and the 7th Nigerian Beekeeping Summit.
The event, organised by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in partnership with the Youth for Apiculture Initiative, focused on the growing importance of beekeeping in food production, environmental protection, and youth empowerment.
Speaking at the summit, the Director of Quality Assurance and Certification in the ministry, Dr Nuralla Abubakar, said the government was expanding support for apiculture through training programmes, research, and access to resources for beekeepers across the country.
According to him, beekeeping has become an important component of Nigeria’s livestock value chain and can contribute significantly to economic growth and agricultural resilience.
He explained that World Bee Day, observed every May 20 and recognised by the United Nations, is aimed at creating awareness on the role of bees and other pollinators in food security, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable livelihoods.
Dr Abubakar noted that this year’s theme, “Bee Together for People and the Planet, A Partnership that Sustains Us All,” highlights the need for collective responsibility in protecting pollinators and preserving the environment.
Also at the event, a representative of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Mohammad Usman, called for closer cooperation among government agencies, civil society organisations, environmental advocates, and beekeeping groups to improve pollinator protection in Nigeria.
The summit also featured practical sessions for students and young participants on modern beekeeping techniques and business opportunities within the honey production industry.
Leading the training, apiculture expert Akande Ayoade introduced participants to apiary management, hive establishment, honey processing, and the commercial potential of beekeeping.
He said the programme was designed to encourage young Nigerians to explore agriculture based entrepreneurship and develop self sustaining careers outside conventional office employment.
Ayoade added that the Youth for Apiculture Initiative remained committed to expanding youth participation in the sector through advocacy, mentorship, environmental awareness, and strategic partnerships.
Secretary of the Youth for Apiculture Initiative, University of Abuja chapter, Akinboye Anuoluwapo, educated participants on bee life cycles, pollination, hive construction, and the various products derived from honey bees.
