In a significant move against wildlife trafficking, Nigeria's Customs Service (NCS) announced the interception of more than 1,600 birds, including ring-necked parrots and green- and yellow-fronted canaries, at Lagos International Airport. This operation, executed on July 31, has been labeled the most substantial wildlife trafficking bust in Nigeria's history. According to NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada, the seizure underscores the alarming frequency of wildlife trafficking in the nation.
Nigeria Discovers Major Wildlife Trafficking Operation with 1,600 Birds Seized
Nigeria Discovers Major Wildlife Trafficking Operation with 1,600 Birds Seized
Nigeria's customs agency has intervened in one of the largest wildlife trafficking incidents to date, safeguarding over 1,600 birds intended for illicit export.
The birds were discovered during routine inspections, and authorities reported that the shipment lacked the necessary documentation and permits required for legal transport. Investigations are currently underway to locate and hold accountable those behind the illegal shipment. The birds will be handed over to the National Parks Service for rehabilitation before being released back into their natural habitats.
Despite Nigeria's status as a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the country remains a notorious hub for illegal wildlife trade, primarily driven by its porous borders and corruption. The global illegal wildlife market generates between $7 to $23 billion annually, and canaries, valued particularly for their singing talents, are in high demand among traffickers. The NCS noted that most trafficked species are typically destined for markets in Asia, illustrating a broader challenge in the fight against wildlife trafficking.
This significant seizure, made public only recently to avoid compromising ongoing investigations, highlights Nigeria's efforts to combat this pressing issue.
Despite Nigeria's status as a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the country remains a notorious hub for illegal wildlife trade, primarily driven by its porous borders and corruption. The global illegal wildlife market generates between $7 to $23 billion annually, and canaries, valued particularly for their singing talents, are in high demand among traffickers. The NCS noted that most trafficked species are typically destined for markets in Asia, illustrating a broader challenge in the fight against wildlife trafficking.
This significant seizure, made public only recently to avoid compromising ongoing investigations, highlights Nigeria's efforts to combat this pressing issue.
