The Kwara State Government has trained 50 youths and women on modern beekeeping practices as part of efforts to strengthen the livestock value chain, promote entrepreneurship and improve food security across the state.
The one-day intensive training programme, held on Tuesday April 5th 2026, at the Kwara State Ministry of Livestock Development in Ilorin, was organised to support the objectives of the recently launched Kwara Livestock Entrepreneurship Scheme (KWALES).
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Yahaya Mohammed, explained that the training was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and technical skills in apiculture as a sustainable agricultural venture.
She noted that beekeeping remains a viable income generating enterprise capable of strengthening the livestock value chain, boosting honey production, creating jobs and enhancing food security in the state.
According to her, the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader agenda of promoting livestock production, empowering residents and encouraging innovative livestock practices across Kwara State.
The Commissioner further disclosed that participants at the training comprised students enrolled under the Kwara State Livestock Entrepreneurship Scheme (KWALES), alongside selected women executives from the Kwara Women in Livestock Value Chain Association.
Mrs. Thomas emphasized that the diverse participation reflected the government’s commitment to inclusivity, youth empowerment and increased women participation in livestock commercialization.
She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustaining capacity-building programmes aimed at driving livestock value-chain development and encouraging commercialization within the sector.
In his remarks, the Adungreen Partner, Mr. Tajudeen Olaribigbe, explained that the beneficiaries comprised 20 women and 30 youths, including students and other participants.He added that the training exposed participants to hands-on practical experience and provided deeper understanding of modern apiculture practices.
Delivering his goodwill message, Dr. Ayo Ajisefini of EGI commended the Ministry for organizing the programme, describing beekeeping as an agricultural enterprise with significant economic potential when properly harnessed.
Also speaking, the Adviser to Kwara Women in Livestock and the Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) of the Ministry, Dr. Idiat Aminu, applauded the initiative and encouraged participants to maximize the knowledge acquired in building sustainable ventures within the livestock sector.
Participants at the training expressed appreciation to the Ministry for what they described as a timely and impactful programme capable of opening new pathways for entrepreneurship and economic growth in Kwara State.
A major 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, providing attendees with practical experience and deeper understanding of modern apiculture methods.
The training sessions were facilitated by experienced professionals in the field, including Sheu Taofeeq Abiodun, Isha Habeeb, and Akinboye Anuoluwapo, who delivered insightful sessions on modern beekeeping techniques, hive management, honey production and market opportunities within the apiculture sector.
