Customs Foil Wildlife Smuggling Ring, Seize Over 1,600 Endangered Birds in Lagos

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Muhammed Airport Command, Lagos, has announced the interception of a major wildlife trafficking attempt involving over 1,620 endangered birds en route to Kuwait. The seized cargo, which included protected species such as Ringneck Parakeets and Canaries, was intercepted on July 31 by vigilant customs officers at the airport’s cargo control post.

According to iReporter Online, the Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Michael Awe, confirmed the seizure in an official statement issued on Monday. He disclosed that the birds—comprising both green and yellow-fronted varieties—were being illegally exported without the required permits, in violation of international wildlife trade protocols.

Comptroller Awe emphasized that the cargo lacked documentation mandated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory. He reiterated the responsibility of Nigeria to uphold CITES regulations by ensuring that international trade involving endangered species is legal and sustainable.

“These birds should have been accompanied by a valid CITES permit,” Awe stated. “Our commitment is to ensure that no unlawful shipment escapes scrutiny at this airport.”

He added that the Customs Service has launched a full investigation into the incident to identify and apprehend those behind the illegal export operation. In accordance with existing inter-agency protocols, the seized birds will be transferred to the National Parks Service for appropriate care and conservation.

Comptroller Awe noted that this operation reflects the renewed policy thrust under the leadership of Comptroller General Bashir Adewale, who currently serves as Chairman of the World Customs Organization Council. The move is part of broader efforts to strengthen border controls, enhance wildlife protection, and ensure Nigeria remains compliant with global environmental standards.