UNILORIN, partner organisations mark 2026 World Bee Day
By Mustafa Abubakar
A former Ag. Head of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, University of Ilorin, Dr Nusirat Aderinsola Sadiku, has disclosed that the 2026 World Bee Day celebration increased awareness on pollinator conservation, sustainable environmental practices, and the economic importance of honey bees among students and members of the University community.
Speaking at the event held recently at the UNILORIN Engineering Pavilion, Dr Sadiku explained that the programme brought together students, environmental advocates, researchers and notable beekeepers in celebration of the vital role bees play in food security and ecosystem sustainability.
She disclosed that the 2026 edition was jointly organised by a UNILORIN-based research group; Green Questers Organisation for Sustainable Development (GQ); People, Climate and Livelihood Support Initiative (PeCaLiSI); Bee-Rent Apiary Munch GbR, Dedelstorf, Germany; Apis Reserves & Food Processing Co. Ltd, Mpanda-Katavi, Tanzania; Global Agricultural Extension and Rural Services (GAERS); as well as campus-based student groups, EcoGreen Gems and BeeTribe Africa, among others.
Dr Sadiku noted that World Bee Day, celebrated annually on May 20, is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of bees and other pollinators to human survival and environmental sustainability.
According to her, bees play significant roles in pollination, food production, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem balance, while the celebration also serves as a call for stronger action toward protecting pollinators from threats such as habitat destruction, pesticide misuse, climate change, and environmental pollution.
She added that activities commenced with a colourful “Bee Walk” from the School Park to the Engineering Pavilion to sensitise members of the University community on the importance of bees and pollination to environmental sustainability.
Dr Sadiku further stressed the need for collective efforts towards protecting pollinators and promoting eco-friendly practices capable of sustaining biodiversity and enhancing food security.
The don, who is also the QueenBee (Matron) of BeeTribe Africa representing the Green Questers Organisation for Sustainable Development (GQ), actively participated in the coordination and awareness activities during the celebration.
Other participants at the event said they were exposed to practical knowledge on beekeeping, biodiversity conservation, climate action, and sustainable environmental practices, adding that discussions during the programme highlighted the economic benefits of honey bees and bee products.
They also noted that the programme further strengthened the commitment of BeeTribe Africa toward climate action, youth engagement, environmental education, and biodiversity conservation within and beyond the University community.
The celebration ended with renewed calls for environmental stewardship and pollinator protection, as stakeholders reaffirmed their dedication to promoting sustainable beekeeping and youth-driven environmental initiatives.
Among dignitaries who witnessed the event were Mr S.G. Apo, the Head of UNILORIN Apiary; Mrs Oyedunmade, the Assistant Head of UNILORIN Apiary; Mr Olayemi Ogunleye, and Mr Habeeb Isa of Bee Ambrose Agro-Allied Ventures;, Osogbo, as well as other notable beekeepers and researchers.
