Appraisal of Beekeeping Practices and Colony Health Management Among Commercial Apiarists in Oyo State, South West Nigeria

Commercial beekeeping is gaining traction across Nigeria as a profitable agribusiness, supported by growing demand for honey and awareness of pollinators' agricultural value. Oyo State hosts a significant number of registered and informal commercial apiaries, yet documentation of management practices and colony health challenges facing apiarists in the state is limited. This study appraises beekeeping practices, colony health status, and management knowledge among commercial apiarists in Oyo State. A stratified sample of 80 apiarists from four agricultural zones will be interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire covering hive management, disease recognition, queen rearing, and pest control practices. Physical inspection of 200 selected hives will assess colony strength, brood condition, queen presence, and evidence of pests including Varroa mites and small hive beetles. Colony health scores will be correlated with management intensity variables. This study will identify critical management gaps limiting colony productivity and longevity in Oyo State. Findings will be presented to the Oyo State Beekeepers Association and used to design a professional development curriculum for apiarists seeking to expand production. Extension recommendations on evidence-based hive management will be produced as a direct deliverable. Keywords: commercial beekeeping, colony health, Apis mellifera, Oyo State, apiary management