Born Free USA extends congratulations to the Nigerian authorities for their recent seizure of more than 1,600 wild birds. The enforcement operation was carried out by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Lagos International Airport on July 31, 2025.
Among the species of birds seized were ring-necked parakeets and green- and yellow-fronted canaries. The birds, which were destined for markets in Kuwait, have been handed to the Nigerian National Parks Service and will be rehabilitated and then released back into the wild.
There Is a Wildlife Crime Crisis in West Africa and Nigeria Is a Key Trafficking Hub
Wildlife crime across West Africa is causing high levels of biodiversity loss. Illegal logging, illicit trade, and poaching have resulted in enormous damage to wild habitats and wildlife populations. The National Strategy to Combat Wildlife and Forest Crime in Nigeria recognizes that Nigeria has emerged as a key source, destination, and transit country for trafficked wildlife, and it is vital that efforts are made to curb this illicit trade.
The Trade in Birds Is a Global Problem
Illegal international trade in wild birds for the pet trade is a global concern. Capture of the birds often involves highly harmful and deadly methods, such as the use of glue on perching sites, resulting in birds becoming glued to the tree. Studies have indicated that, due to these horrific capture methods, the mortality rate of wild birds could be as high as 90% before even reaching the first export site in the country of origin.
As an implementing partner for the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), Born Free USA has been aiding Nigeria in the establishment and training of their Wildlife Law Enforcement Task Force, which is a multi-agency unit comprising 18 different government authorities, including the Nigeria Customs Service.
Wildlife Trafficking Is Carried Out by Criminal Groups
Large-scale seizures such as these indicate that the trafficking is carried out by organized criminal groups (OCGs). These OCGs undermine the rule of law and plunder West Africa’s natural heritage. It is vital that they are identified and prosecuted.
Born Free USA warmly applauds the work of the Nigerian NCS and WLETF. Their work in this uncovering this seizure demonstrates their ongoing and steadfast commitment to combating wildlife crime. We look forward to continuing our work alongside these authorities to save more wildlife and bring traffickers to justice.
For the Animals,
Shelley
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The Born Free USA Team
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