Nigeria requires about N36 billion to scale up honey production and commercialize apiculture, according to industry experts.
Mr. Niyi Adeyemo, the Africa Director-General of the Youth for Agricultural Initiatives (YFAI), shared this insight. During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday.
He noted that while awareness of beekeeping is growing, the sector has struggled to achieve large-scale commercial honey production. This is due to limited access to funding and investment models.
Adeyemo emphasized that with proper funding, apiculture could create new jobs, improve food security, and boost crop pollination.
We have not scaled up to the commercial level in honey production. But in terms of awareness, we have done better.”
Commercial production has not been increased because there’s no access to funds. Before you see a commercial bank or a potential investor in apiculture, they want to know the finance model and how soon they can get returns from their investors.”
“However, if we can have each state dedicate like N1 billion to the apiculture sector, the funding is going to have a multi-diversity impact on the sector’s productivity.”
“We need like N36 billion investment to boost Apiculture production in Nigeria.”
Adeyemo added that investment would also make it easier for new farmers to start bee farms by ensuring a steady supply of high-quality bees.
Key Insights from Adeyemo:
- Funding Needs: The apiculture industry requires N36 billion to support infrastructure, queen bee rearing, and sustainable development systems.
- Bee Villages: Establishing bee villages or estates—designated safe zones for large-scale beekeeping—could improve efficiency, protect investments, and enhance pollination.
- Food Security: A larger bee population would lead to better crop pollination, higher agricultural yields, and improved food security in Nigeria.
Current Trends in Beekeeping:
- Awareness and participation in beekeeping are growing, with more young people entering the industry.
- Commercial beekeeping is gradually being adopted on farms.
- Consumers are encouraged to buy honey from certified beekeepers to ensure quality and market integrity.
Adeyemo concluded that structured apiculture activities would not only boost honey production but also preserve the industry’s credibility and sustainability.
