In a major breakthrough against illegal wildlife trade, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a massive consignment of endangered animal parts at the Mfum/Ekok Joint Border Station in Calabar, Cross River State.
The illicit shipment, which was being smuggled into Nigeria from Cameroon, was uncovered during a routine baggage check, according to Comptroller Chukwudi Ogbonna, Customs Area Controller for the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Command.
The shocking discovery included 213 parrot heads, 29 packs of feathers, 128 African hornbill heads, five eagle heads, one pack of eagle feathers, two chimpanzee heads, along with four chimpanzee hands and four legs—raising alarm among conservationists and border security officials alike.
The suspect behind the smuggling attempt has been apprehended and is currently in custody as investigations continue.
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Comptroller Ogbonna described the seizure as a clear violation of global wildlife protection laws, particularly the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), as well as Nigeria’s own National Customs Strategic Action Plan (NCSA) of 2023.
“This is not just a crime against the law—it is a crime against nature. The Nigeria Customs Service will not relent in its mission to safeguard Nigeria’s natural heritage and enforce international agreements aimed at preserving biodiversity,” Ogbonna stated firmly.
The Calabar seizure is one of the largest of its kind in recent years, shining a spotlight on Nigeria’s strategic position in the global fight against wildlife trafficking. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, as the crackdown on illegal wildlife trade intensifies.
