THE INTERCEPTION OF PROTECTED BIRDS

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted a consignment of protected birds at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, indicating that illicit wildlife trade is still thriving and poses a significant threat to Nigeria's biodiversity and security. The intercepted birds included ringneck parakeets, parrots, and green and yellow-fronted canaries, all protected species.

Transporting these birds legally to Kuwait would have required proper documentation and permits under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The NCS emphasized the importance of following legal procedures to prevent overexploitation and regulate biodiversity conservation.

Wildlife crime is often underestimated, but it is linked to serious crimes such as insurgency and banditry. The NCS handed over the intercepted birds to the National Parks Service to ensure their protection and conservation.

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) highlighted the need for strong cooperation among security agencies to combat illegal wildlife trafficking and urged Nigerians to take environmental sustainability.