Sola-Ojo calls for protection of bees to enhance food security

By Mustafa Abubakar

The Head of the Department of Animal Production, University of Ilorin, Prof. Foluke Sola-Ojo, has called for intensified efforts towards protecting bee populations as the world commemorated the 2026 World Bee Day.

Prof. Sola-Ojo made the call last Wednesday (May 20, 2026) while speaking with UNILORIN Bulletin in her office, stressing that bees remain one of the most important agents of agricultural sustainability and global food security.

She advised the University community to embrace environmental sustainability practices by planting more trees, reducing harmful chemical usage around farms and gardens, and supporting research initiatives aimed at protecting pollinators and biodiversity.

According to her, universities have a vital role to play in promoting environmental education, scientific innovation, and community awareness on the importance of bees to food production and ecosystem preservation.

Prof. Sola-Ojo explained that beyond honey production, bees play a critical role in pollination, which directly supports crop yield, biodiversity, and environmental balance.

She warned that bee populations across the world continue to face serious threats from climate change, deforestation, excessive pesticide use, and habitat destruction.

The don further explained that in the field of Animal Production and sustainable agriculture, preservation of bees is closely linked to improved agricultural productivity and ecological stability.

She, therefore, urged governments, researchers, farmers, and other stakeholders to encourage bee-friendly farming systems and create more awareness about the economic and environmental importance of bees.

Prof. Sola-Ojo noted that the World Bee Day serves as a reminder that protecting bees is not only about conserving insects but also about safeguarding humanity’s future, nutrition, and livelihoods.