Adeboje Lukman
It was a remarkable and enlightening gathering in Iwo Osun State, Nigeria yesterday, May 20, 2026 as Al Istijabah Herbal and Honey Production in collaboration with Iwo Zone Beekeepers Association celebrated World Bee Day, an annual global event dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of bees and other pollinators to biodiversity, food security, and environmental sustainability.
The event, sponsored by Lotus Bank, Earthly Produce Nigeria Limited, and Izbal Iwo Zone Beekeepers Association Ltd, attracted participants, researchers, environmentalists, and beekeeping enthusiasts from different parts of Nigeria. Researchers from Obafemi Awolowo University and International Institute of Tropical Agriculture were also in attendance.
Speaking at the event, Professor Lai Olurode, a retired professor of sociology from the University of Lagos, described the programme as a vital platform for creating awareness about the importance and economic potential of beekeeping. He urged governments at all levels to support and partner with practitioners in the sector, noting that beekeeping can significantly reduce unemployment and improve livelihoods.
Also speaking, Mr. Olukunle Olasupo from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture emphasized the urgent need to conserve biodiversity and protect the natural environment. He warned against indiscriminate tree felling, stressing that deforestation negatively affects bee populations and honey production. He further encouraged the planting of indigenous trees rather than foreign species that may not support the local ecosystem.
In his remarks, Dr. Adejumo disclosed that ongoing research is exploring the potential of honey in cancer treatment. He encouraged Nigerians to adopt honey as a healthier alternative to refined sugar in their daily consumption.
Mr. Taliat Abdul Kabir described the honey business as highly lucrative and profitable if properly explored. He noted that efforts are ongoing to combat the spread of fake honey products, which pose serious health risks to consumers. According to him, although Nigeria is not yet ranked among the world’s leading honey producers, Nigerian honey remains one of the best in quality globally.
Dr. M.D. Omotosho from the University of Ibadan called for stronger legislation against deforestation and the excessive use of insecticides, noting that both practices have devastating effects on bee production and environmental sustainability.
One of the sponsors of the event and CEO of Earthly Produce Nigeria Limited, Mr. Malik Femi Keshington, appealed to Nigerians to take environmental preservation seriously. He lamented the increasing destruction of trees and forests in the name of agriculture and land development, urging farmers and landowners to embrace sustainable practices that protect nature while supporting food production.
The Oluwo of Iwo was represented at the event by Chief Taiwo Olaosebikan. The celebration ended with renewed calls for environmental conservation, sustainable beekeeping practices, and collective efforts toward protecting biodiversity for future generations.