On September 25, 2023, during his inaugural press briefing, Comptroller Timi Bomodi, the Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, announced the interception of live endangered African Grey Parrots, Green Parrots, and a hawk. These animals, valued at N6,859,832, were seized at the Gbaji checkpoint en route to the Benin Republic, based on credible intelligence received in the early hours of the same day.
Comptroller Bomodi revealed that the creatures were discovered in a luxurious bus travelling from Kaduna to Lagos, to be sold abroad. He emphasized that such illicit trade in endangered species is a significant concern, as these animals hold high value outside the country, motivating individuals to undertake considerable risks in smuggling them.
Underlining the Nigeria Customs Service’s dedication to combating this illicit trade, Comptroller Bomodi disclosed that two suspects were apprehended in connection with the seizure. He further explained that as a signatory to the convention on illicit trade in endangered species, it is the responsibility of the Nigeria Customs Service to ensure that such trades are halted.
The seized animals were subsequently handed over to Comptroller Sanusi Magashi, the Controller of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services. It is within his purview to temporarily safeguard and nurture these animals before releasing them to a national park. Comptroller Magaji praised the Seme Area Command for their effective coordination, lauding their efforts as a job well executed.
