Last Updated on June 10, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide

By Olasunkanmi Olajide

A dedicated team of beekeepers at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), led by Dr. Matthew Wheto and Mr. Abraham Fadeyi, have embarked on a field expedition into the University’s bush terrain adjacent to the Prof. Oluwafemi Balogun Ceremonial Building to trap honey bees as part of their apiculture activities.

The team, which included some other staff members, engaged in strategically placing the bait hives, which were donated and designed by Wafroex to attract and capture bee colonies.

While preparing the hives for the bush, Dr. Wheto, an Animal Geneticist and passionate apiculture advocate, stated that the exercise was to boost honey production within the University, adding that it was also to support research, conservation, and capacity building in beekeeping.

He emphasised the ecological and economic benefits of beekeeping. He noted that honey bees not only produce valuable products such as honey and beeswax but also play a critical role in pollination and biodiversity conservation.

Speaking on the exercise, Mr. Fadeyi stated that the current baiting process was part of an ongoing effort to domesticate wild bee populations and cultivate a thriving apiary on campus. According to him, the initiative would also serve as a practical training platform for students.

With global interest in beekeeping growing amid concerns over declining bee populations, FUNAAB’s proactive steps signal a commitment to innovative, environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

Photos and video are attached below 👇