The FCT Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has distributed free associated seedlings of pollinator friendly trees to bee farmers corporatives, and the public for planting in their homes and farmlands in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
The distribution of the seedlings was in line with the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, administration’s commitment to achieving the objectives of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Project Coordinator, FCT ACReSAL Project, Mrs. Caroline Opara, stated this at the commemoration of World Bee Day 2025 event organized by the FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat in conjunction with the FCT Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project and the Forestry Department in Abuja Nigeria’s capital.
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Mrs Opkara, who is also the Director, Forestry Department, said suits (for beekeeping equipment) would also be distributed to selected schools during the school outreach programme, which will commence on Thursday in a bid to catching the attention of the youth, the future guardians of the ecosystem.
She said that the event was to raise public awareness about the importance of bees and other pollinators in forestry, agriculture, biodiversity conservation, food security and nutrition in the environment.
“We are gathered here today in response to the call by the United Nations to promote beekeeping (Apiculture) as a sustainable livelihood and environmental conservation practice.
“To engage schools, youth groups, farmers, and forestry stakeholders in pollinator-friendly practices.
“To foster partnership and collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector on bee conservation initiatives,” she said.
According to her, given the growing concern over the rapid decline in bee populations, which poses a significant threat to the ecosystem, this year theme is apt as it speaks to the relevance of bee in nutrition.
“Today, we have assembled here a diverse group of stakeholders, consisting of bee farmers and students from various FCT schools.
“Their presence here is a powerful demonstration of our shared vision and mission to provide a thriving habitat for bees,” she said.
The FCT ACReSAL project coordinator explained that the protection of pollinator safeguards forests, combats climate change, and enhances livelihoods.
She pointed out that the FCT ACReSAL project has provided a platform to educate the public on the importance of pollinators in maintaining a healthy landscape and supporting climate smart agriculture.
She added that the project would “support biodiversity conservation as it aligns with the ACReSAL component B, which is community climate resilience to restore ecosystem functionality, because bee conservation directly contributes to biodiversity enhancement and natural regeneration of the forest ecosystem.
“Strengthen stakeholders’ engagement- to foster collaboration among government agencies, NGO’s, traditional institutions, schools, and community-based organizations, thereby strengthening the multi-stakeholder approach promoted by the ACReSAL project.”
“Demonstrate commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals- ACReSAL sponsorship of this year’s event underscores the leadership role of the project and the GoN’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.”
Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat FCTA, Mr. Abdullahi Suleiman Ango in his remarks said efforts will be made to scale up support to Bee farmers by intensifying awareness campaigns targeted at schools, farmers and stakeholders across the FCT.
“Today, we will be distributing assorted seedlings of pollinator friendly trees for planting in our homes and farmlands.”
“Our goal ultimately, is to promote pollinator-friendly practices that will safeguard bee populations and consequently, food security,” he said.
He explained that beyond its ecological importance, apiculture or beekeeping stands as a vital commercial venture with immense potential.
“Honey, beeswax and other by-products, represent significant sources of income and employment, particularly in rural communities which are blessed with abundant forest resources,” he stated.
The Conservator General National Park Service, Dr Ibrahim Goni, said that the National Park Service, as a frontline institution in biodiversity conservation in Nigeria, views pollinators-including bees,-as critical allies in sustaining the country’s protected ecosystems.
“The National Park Service under our mandate provide secure habitats for wild bees and other pollinators, supporting natural regeneration processes in forests, savannahs, and wetlands.” He said.
He explained that the Park Service would continue to partner in pollinator conservation and ecosystem restoration efforts across Nigeria.
This year’s theme, “Bee Inspired to Nourish Us All,” encourages collective efforts and participation in creating a supportive environment for bees to thrive.