The Kano/Jigawa Customs Area Command has seized 48 endangered wildlife species in a single day, marking what officials describe as the largest and most diverse wildlife bust in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). The interception, which took place on August 25, 2026, included chimpanzees, gorillas, albino crocodiles, and rare birds.
Details of the Seizure
Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Controller of Customs Usman Adamu, disclosed the details to journalists at the Customs House in Bompai, Kano, on Friday. He said the animals comprised 15 primates, including chimpanzees, gorillas, and bush babies. Officers also recovered a range of wild cats, including civets and caracals, alongside 25 wild birds such as greater bustards and rock fowls. Two albino crocodiles and a honey badger were among the items taken in.
Adamu said three suspects linked to the trafficking attempt had been transferred to the Special Wildlife Office at the NCS Headquarters for further action.
"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," Adamu said.
He added: "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."
Command's Wider Enforcement Record
Beyond the wildlife seizure, Adamu gave a broader update on the command's performance since July 2026. He said total seizures and detentions during that period amounted to a Duty Paid Value of over N2 billion. On revenue, the command had collected N63.07 billion in the first half of the year, with year-to-date earnings now standing at N88.92 billion—a jump of about N25 billion from July to the time of the briefing.
Adamu noted that July recorded the highest single-month revenue collection in the command's history, with over N14 billion generated. "Our officers will continue to remain vigilant in identifying and preventing activities that fall outside these laws," he added.
Context and Broader Impact
The seizure underscores the ongoing threat of wildlife trafficking in Nigeria and the West African region. The NCS's intensified enforcement efforts, as demonstrated by this record bust, aim to curb illegal trade and protect biodiversity. The case also highlights the command's dual role in revenue generation and law enforcement, with significant financial contributions alongside its regulatory duties.
The three suspects transferred to the Special Wildlife Office at NCS Headquarters will face further investigation and potential prosecution under the NCS Act 2023, signalling a continued crackdown on wildlife crime.
