The Kwara State Government has facilitated beekeeping training for 50 individuals as part of efforts to advance the objectives of the recently launched Kwara Livestock Entrepreneurship Scheme.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by Omolara Adeleye, Assistant Press Secretary at the Ministry of Livestock Development.

According to Adeleye, the State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Oloruntoyosi Thomas, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Yahaya Mohammed, explained that "the one-day intensive training on beekeeping, aimed at equipping participants with practical knowledge and skills in apiculture as a sustainable agricultural venture."

She emphasised, "The importance of beekeeping as a viable income-generating opportunity capable of strengthening the livestock value chain and enhancing food security in the state. Particularly, honey production and enhancing job creation and food security.

"The initiative aligns with the ministry's broader agenda to promote livestock production, create employment, and empower residents through innovative livestock practices."

The commissioner further explained that participants at the training included students enrolled under the Kwara State Livestock Entrepreneurship Scheme, alongside selected Women Executives from the Kwara Women in Livestock Value Chain Association.

Thomas stated that the diverse participation reflected the ministry's commitment to inclusivity, youth empowerment, and women's involvement in livestock commercialisation.

She therefore reaffirmed "Government's commitment to sustaining such capacity-building programmes as part of efforts to drive livestock value-chain and encourage commercialization of livestock in the state."

Mr Tajudeen Olaribigbe, Adungreen Partner, in his remarks, explained that "the 50 individuals comprising 20 women and 30 youth, made up of students and others"

He added, "The training is to expose participants to hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of modern apiculture practices"

In his goodwill message, Dr Ayo Ajisefini of EGI, commended the ministry for organising the training, noting that beekeeping holds significant economic potential if properly harnessed.

Also speaking, the Advisor, Kwara Women in Livestock and the Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) of the Ministry, Dr Idiat Aminu, applauded the initiative and encouraged participants to leverage the knowledge gained to build sustainable ventures within the livestock sector.

Participants expressed gratitude to the ministry for the impactful training, describing it as timely and beneficial, particularly in opening new pathways for entrepreneurship and economic growth within Kwara State.

A key highlight of the training was the extensive practical session, where participants were exposed to real-life beekeeping processes. Demonstrations featured the use of bee hives, beeswax, and other essential materials, giving attendees hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of modern apiculture practices.

The training sessions were facilitated by experienced professionals in the field, including Sheu Taofeeq Abiodun, Isha Habeeb, and Akinboye Anuoluwapo, who provided in-depth insights into modern beekeeping techniques, hive management, honey production, and market opportunities within the sector.

Beekeeping, also known as apiculture, is regarded as one of the underutilised agricultural ventures in Nigeria despite its potential for honey production, income generation and export opportunities.