By Nafisat Makinde
As the world celebrates World Bee Day 2025, the President of the Bravura Beefarmers Cooperative of Nigeria, Adeyemi Adebayo, has called on Nigerians to join forces to protect the country’s bee population. In a passionate address, Adebayo emphasized the critical role bees play in food security and ecosystem sustainability.
“We will not tolerate any form of destruction to our hives and bee populations,” Adebayo stressed, highlighting the importance of protecting these vital pollinators. “Bees are more than honey producers; they are guardians of biodiversity and productivity, playing a critical role in sustaining our ecosystems.”
Adebayo noted that a staggering 75% of the world’s food crops depend, at least in part, on pollination. “Without bees, many of the fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds we enjoy would be in short supply or might not exist at all,” he said. “That is why supporting bees means supporting food security for our nation and the world at large.”
The Bravura Beefarmers Cooperative of Nigeria is committed to promoting sustainable beekeeping, increasing awareness, and empowering communities through apiculture. Adebayo urged Nigerians to take action to protect bees, including:
- Planting bee-friendly flowers in gardens, schools, and communities
- Supporting local beekeepers by buying locally produced honey and hive products
- Avoiding harmful pesticides that endanger bees and the environment
- Educating others, especially the younger generation, about the importance of bees and the potential of apiculture
“Apiculture is a treasure trove – a goldmine of opportunities yet to be fully tapped by individuals, NGOs, and government agencies,” Adebayo said. “With the right investment and awareness, it can become a significant driver of rural development, job creation, and environmental conservation in Nigeria.”
The Bravura Beefarmers Cooperative of Nigeria extends its deep appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture for their continued support, technical guidance, and interest in promoting apiculture as a viable agricultural sector.
As Nigerians come together to celebrate World Bee Day 2025, Adebayo’s message is clear: protecting bees is a collective responsibility. “Let us work together – government, farmers, citizens – to ensure that bees continue to nourish us all,” he said. “Long live the bees!”
With the about statement, I am a proud beekeeper. Let us all join hands to protect the great pollinators. Long live the bees!
I am proud to be a beekeeper and APIARIST