Customs Intercept 48 endangered animals in Kano, Jigawa

The Kano/Jigawa Customs Area Command has intercepted no fewer than 48 endangered wildlife species within one day.

The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Controller of Customs Usman Adamu, made the disclosure while briefing newsmen at the Customs House, Bompai, Kano, on Friday.

He said the animals, which were intercepted on August 25, 2026, comprised 15 primates, including chimpanzees, gorillas and bush babies.

Others were wild cats, such as civets and caracals, and 25 wild birds, including greater bustards and rock fowls.

He said two albino crocodiles and a honey badger were also intercepted.

Adamu said the three suspects arrested in connection with the interception of the endangered animals had been handed over to the Special Wildlife Office of 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.

“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,” he said.

He added that the range of seizures and interceptions recorded within the period reflected the command’s continued commitment to enforcing extant Customs laws.

The acting comptroller said the command had, from July 2026 to date, recorded seizures and detentions amounting to a total Duty Paid Value of over N2bn.

“You may wish to recall that during the half-year press briefing, the command generated the sum of N63.07bn in revenue. Additionally, the command’s year-to-date revenue generation currently stands at N88.92bn, showing a variance of about N25bn from July 2026 to date.

“It is therefore important to note that the month of July recorded the highest monthly collection in the history of the command, with over N14bn generated.”

He said the range of seizures and interceptions recorded within the period reflected the command’s continued commitment to enforcing extant Customs laws.

“Our officers will continue to remain vigilant in identifying and preventing activities that fall outside these laws,” he added.