Nigeria Customs Intercepts Birds Meant For Illegal Export At Lagos Airport

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Mohammed Cargo Command, has intercepted a large consignment of exotic birds allegedly being exported illegally to Kuwait. The seizure was made on July 31, 2025, following a routine inspection by vigilant officers at the cargo terminal.

According to the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Michael Toyin Awe, the interception was a direct result of the unwavering diligence of officers under his command, who he described as the “eagle eyes” of the nation’s air border.

“No illegal shipment will slip through the cracks under my watch at the airport,” Awe vowed, emphasizing his commitment to upholding international trade laws and national security at Nigeria’s busiest airport.

The birds—identified as Ringnecked Parakeets (parrots) and Canaries (Green and Yellow Fronted)—were found without the necessary documentation required for international trade. The export attempt violated Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which the country has domesticated in its environmental and customs regulations.

Under CITES, all international movement of endangered flora and fauna must be accompanied by proper permits, which prove that the animals were legally acquired and that their trade will not threaten the survival of the species.

While investigations into the attempted smuggling are ongoing, Comptroller Awe confirmed that the birds would be handed over to the National Parks Service (NPS). The agency is responsible for the rehabilitation and reintroduction of rescued wildlife into their natural habitats.

The operation highlights the synergy between Customs and other government bodies as envisioned by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi Adewale, MFR, who also serves as the current Chair of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council.

The Customs Command reiterated its commitment to inter-agency cooperation and adherence to global best practices in the protection of endangered species and the environment.