Authorities at Nigeria’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport intercepted a major  wildlife trafficking attempt, seizing more than 1,620 live birds bound for Kuwait. The confiscated shipment, which included ring-necked parakeets and green and yellow-fronted canaries, was discovered during a routine inspection on July 31, according to a statement by the Nigeria Customs Service.

Illegal Export Without Permits

The birds, both of which are classified as protected species, were being transported without the required documentation. As a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), Nigeria mandates that all wildlife exports be accompanied by valid CITES permits—none of which were presented for this shipment.

Customs Vows Zero Tolerance

Customs Area Comptroller Michael Awe emphasized the agency’s vigilance, saying, “No illegal shipment will slip through the cracks under my watch… the eagle eyes of our officers are everywhere.” Awe reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to stopping illegal wildlife trafficking at all exit points, particularly airports that serve as key transit routes.

Birds Handed Over for Rehabilitation

Following the seizure, the birds were handed over to the National Park Service, which is now responsible for their rehabilitation and eventual reintroduction into protected natural habitats. This action aligns with national conservation efforts aimed at restoring endangered species in the wild.

A Positive Shift in Wildlife Protection

Conservationists have hailed the seizure as a milestone in Nigeria’s fight against the illegal wildlife trade. According to Mark Ofua, the West Africa spokesperson for the NGO Wild Africa, the action represents a growing resolve to combat trafficking. “Nigeria is often used as a global hub for illegal wildlife exports. This move sends a strong message to traffickers,” he said.

Nigeria’s Struggles with Enforcement

Despite positive steps, Nigeria remains a major transit point for illegal wildlife due to porous borders, systemic corruption, and limited law enforcement capacity. Wildlife products such as pangolin scales and ivory are frequently smuggled through the country before being routed to Asia via the Middle East.

Global Trafficking Routes and Demand

Middle Eastern airports, including those in Kuwait and the UAE, are frequently used as connecting points between Africa and Asia. Once in Asia, wildlife products are either sold as traditional medicine ingredients or consumed as delicacies, particularly in countries like China.

The Cost of Wildlife Crime

Wildlife experts estimate that the global illegal wildlife trade is worth between $8 billion and $10 billion annually, making it one of the most lucrative transnational crimes. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), through its Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species (ROUTES) partnership, has documented the increasing use of African species in black markets across Asia.

Investigation Underway

Nigerian authorities have launched an investigation to uncover the individuals or networks behind the illegal export operation. Customs officials say they are committed to ensuring that anyone involved is identified and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

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