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Kano/Jigawa Customs intercepts 48 endangered animals in major wildlife trafficking bust – EnviroNews
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The Kano/Jigawa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 48 endangered wildlife species in what authorities described as one of the largest and most diverse single wildlife seizures in the history of the Service and possibly the West African sub-region.
The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Controller of Customs Usman Adamu, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the Customs House in Bompai, Kano, on Friday September 4, 2026.
According to Adamu, the animals were intercepted on August 25, 2026, and included 15 primates comprising chimpanzees, gorillas and bush babies.
Other animals seized included wild cats such as civets and caracals, as well as 25 wild birds, including greater bustards and rock fowls. Two albino crocodiles and a honey badger were also among the intercepted animals.
Three suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged wildlife trafficking operation and have been handed over to the Special Wildlife Office at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters for further investigation and appropriate action.
Adamu described the seizure as a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking, saying the operation demonstrated both the scale of the illicit trade and the increasing determination of Customs officers to tackle biodiversity-related crimes.
“It is important to note that this is believed to be the largest and most diverse single seizure of wildlife ever recorded in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service and probably the West African sub-region,” he said.
“This interception underscores the scale and gravity of the trafficking attempt. It also shows the Command’s intensified resolve to protect our biodiversity and uphold obligations under international conventions and Section 55(1)(i) of the NCS Act 2023.”
The Acting Controller said the wildlife interception formed part of a series of seizures and detentions recorded by the Command since July 2026, with a cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) exceeding N2 billion.
He said the Kano/Jigawa Command had also recorded significant revenue growth during the period.
According to him, the Command generated N63.07 billion in revenue as of its half-year briefing, while its year-to-date revenue collection has risen to N88.92 billion, representing an increase of about N25 billion from July to date.
Adamu added that July 2026 marked a major milestone for the Command, with more than N14 billion generated during the month — the highest monthly revenue collection in the history of the Kano/Jigawa Area Command.
He said the range of seizures and interceptions recorded by the Command reflected its continued commitment to enforcing Customs laws and combating illegal activities across its area of responsibility.
“Our officers will continue to remain vigilant in identifying and preventing activities that fall outside these laws,” Adamu said.
The interception comes amid growing concern over illegal wildlife trafficking in Africa, where endangered animals are increasingly targeted for commercial trade, traditional practices, exotic pet markets and other illicit purposes.
The seizure of the 48 animals highlights the need for sustained collaboration among Customs authorities, environmental agencies, wildlife conservation organisations and other law-enforcement bodies to disrupt trafficking networks and strengthen protection for endangered species across Nigeria and the wider West African region.