Nigeria Customs Service Takes Significant Steps Against Wildlife Trafficking
The Borno/Yobe Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to combat wildlife trafficking. During a recent operation in Maiduguri, customs officials intercepted a range of endangered species and contraband items, reinforcing their commitment to protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity.
According to a statement from Command Spokesperson Abdullahi Ubari, the seizure occurred on Thursday, April 9, along Kano Road. The NCS has been intensifying its operations to curb illegal wildlife trade along major routes in Maiduguri, a region that has become increasingly vulnerable to smuggling activities.
The wildlife intercepted during this operation included two hyenas, a porcupine, and 24 crowned cranes. These animals were discovered hidden in a Mercedes-Benz wagon displaying the registration number ABJ 517 AR. The capture of such species highlights the ongoing illegal trade that threatens the survival of these animals.
Species involved in this recent interception are listed under Appendices I and II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Appendix I includes species at high risk of extinction, prohibiting their international commercial trade, while Appendix II encompasses species that could become endangered without strict trading regulations.
Nigeria has increasingly been identified as a critical transit point for trafficked wildlife and their parts. Investigations have indicated a troubling trend of weak prosecution rates for those involved in wildlife crimes, raising concerns about enforcement effectiveness. Ubari emphasized that the interception underscores the NCS’s dedication to fighting wildlife trafficking and safeguarding endangered species.
The customs duty paid value (DPV) of the confiscated animals is estimated at NOK 10 million, showcasing the significant financial implications of such illegal activities. Customs Area Controller Abdullahi Idris has reiterated that authorities will remain vigilant against wildlife trafficking, committing to collaborate with relevant partners to preserve Nigeria’s wildlife heritage and to ensure that violators are brought to justice.
Recent Drug and Contraband Seizures Further Highlight Customs Efforts
In a related operation, the command intercepted a vehicle on Ngugasua Road in Yobe State. This vehicle, a Volkswagen Golf, was found carrying 65 cartons of a foreign juice brand known as “Djino Cocktail de Fruits.” Additionally, it contained two 50kg bags filled with gum arabic and sugar, indicating a diverse range of smuggling attempts.
The estimated value of the smuggled goods is reported to be N2.73 million, with the total customs duty assessed on all seized items amounting to N12.73 million. The NCS has called upon the public to comply with the law and assist in enforcement efforts by providing reliable information to help curb wildlife trafficking and other forms of smuggling.
