Authorities continue to crack down on a booming illegal wildlife trade that undermines conservation efforts.
Nigeria's Largest-Ever Wildlife Trafficking Bust: Over 1,600 Birds Seized
Nigeria's Largest-Ever Wildlife Trafficking Bust: Over 1,600 Birds Seized
Nigeria Customs Service reports a significant wildlife trafficking operation, highlighting the nation's challenges with illegal trade.
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the seizure of over 1,600 birds, including ring-necked parrots and green- and yellow-fronted canaries, in what is being termed the country's most substantial wildlife-trafficking operation to date. On July 31, officials intercepted the shipment at Lagos International Airport, but the details were only released publicly this Tuesday to avoid compromising an ongoing investigation.
The birds were en route to Kuwait without the necessary permits and documentation, according to NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada. The absence of proper papers was a critical factor that enabled the successful interception during routine checks. Despite being relatively common species, these birds are subject to strict international trade regulations.
Nigeria's reputation as a key transit point for wildlife trafficking is exacerbated by its porous borders, widespread corruption, and inadequate enforcement of existing laws. The NCS has stated that it is actively pursuing leads in the investigation to identify and prosecute those involved in this illicit trade. Following the seizure, the birds are set to be transferred to the National Parks Service for rehabilitation before being released back into their natural habitat.
The NCS noted that many trafficked animals from Nigeria are often destined for markets in Asia, reflecting a broader trend in illegal wildlife trade. Nigeria is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), yet remains a significant hub for illegal activities in the wildlife sector.
Global estimates suggest that the illegal wildlife trade generates between $7 billion and $23 billion annually, according to BirdLife International. Popular birds for trafficking, such as songbirds, often command high prices due to the demand generated by singing competitions, while rare parrot species can fetch prices over $1,000.
As experts continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this case, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking, which threatens biodiversity and conservation efforts across the globe.
The birds were en route to Kuwait without the necessary permits and documentation, according to NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada. The absence of proper papers was a critical factor that enabled the successful interception during routine checks. Despite being relatively common species, these birds are subject to strict international trade regulations.
Nigeria's reputation as a key transit point for wildlife trafficking is exacerbated by its porous borders, widespread corruption, and inadequate enforcement of existing laws. The NCS has stated that it is actively pursuing leads in the investigation to identify and prosecute those involved in this illicit trade. Following the seizure, the birds are set to be transferred to the National Parks Service for rehabilitation before being released back into their natural habitat.
The NCS noted that many trafficked animals from Nigeria are often destined for markets in Asia, reflecting a broader trend in illegal wildlife trade. Nigeria is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), yet remains a significant hub for illegal activities in the wildlife sector.
Global estimates suggest that the illegal wildlife trade generates between $7 billion and $23 billion annually, according to BirdLife International. Popular birds for trafficking, such as songbirds, often command high prices due to the demand generated by singing competitions, while rare parrot species can fetch prices over $1,000.
As experts continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this case, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking, which threatens biodiversity and conservation efforts across the globe.
