Nigeria Customs Kano Jigawa: Largest Wildlife Seizure Intercepts 48 Animals

• On August 25, 2026, the Kano/Jigawa Customs Area Command intercepted 48 endangered wildlife species, including primates, wild cats, birds, crocodiles, and a honey badger.
• This seizure, announced by Deputy Controller Usman Adamu, is considered the largest and most diverse single wildlife interception in Nigeria's history and potentially the West African sub-region.
• Three suspects were arrested in connection with the trafficking and transferred to the NCS Headquarters for further action.
• The operation highlights the Command's commitment to enforcing Section 55(1)(i) of the NCS Act 2023 and international conventions against wildlife trafficking.
• Beyond wildlife, the Command recorded over N2 billion in Duty Paid Value from other seizures since July 2026 and generated N88.92 billion in year-to-date revenue.

This particular interception is considered a landmark event, believed to be the largest and most diverse single seizure of wildlife ever recorded in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service.

The Kano/Jigawa Customs Area Command recently executed a significant interception, seizing no fewer than 48 endangered wildlife species in a single day. This operation, which occurred on August 25, 2026, represents a major blow against illegal wildlife trade in the region. Deputy Controller of Customs Usman Adamu, serving as the Acting Customs Area Controller, publicly announced the details of this substantial Nigeria Customs Kano Jigawa largest wildlife seizure during a press briefing held at the Customs House in Bompai, Kano.

The diverse collection of intercepted animals included 15 primates, such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and bush babies, along with 25 wild birds, specifically greater bustards and rock fowls. Additionally, the seizure encompassed two albino crocodiles, a honey badger, and five wild cats, including civets and caracals, bringing the total count to 48. Following the successful operation, three individuals suspected of involvement in this illicit trafficking were apprehended. These suspects have since been transferred to the Special Wildlife Office at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Headquarters for further investigation and appropriate legal action.

This particular interception is considered a landmark event, believed to be the largest and most diverse single seizure of wildlife ever recorded in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service. Its scale also suggests it could be the most significant such incident within the entire West African sub-region, highlighting the extensive reach of wildlife trafficking networks. The Acting Customs Area Controller emphasized that this successful operation not only underscores the serious nature and broad scope of the trafficking attempt but also demonstrates the Command's heightened commitment to safeguarding Nigeria's rich biodiversity.

The Command's actions are firmly rooted in its obligations under various international conventions aimed at combating illegal wildlife trade, as well as specific national legislation. Deputy Controller Adamu explicitly cited Section 55(1)(i) of the NCS Act 2023 as a key legal instrument empowering such enforcement. This robust legal framework enables Nigeria Customs to actively intercept and prosecute those involved in the illicit trade of endangered animals, reinforcing the nation's stance against environmental crimes and bolstering Nigeria wildlife trafficking interception efforts.

The extensive range of seizures and interceptions carried out by the Kano/Jigawa Customs Area Command during the current period reflects its unwavering dedication to upholding existing Customs laws. Beyond the notable wildlife seizure, the Command has recorded other significant detentions and seizures from July 2026 to the present, collectively valued at over N2 billion in Duty Paid Value.

In terms of financial performance, the Command has also demonstrated strong revenue generation. During its half-year press briefing, a revenue sum of N63.07 billion was reported. The year-to-date revenue collection has now reached N88.92 billion, indicating a substantial increase of approximately N25 billion between July 2026 and the current date. Notably, July 2026 marked a historic achievement for the Command, with over N14 billion generated, representing the highest monthly collection in its operational history. These figures underscore the comprehensive efforts of the Kano/Jigawa Customs endangered animals enforcement, extending from vital actions against illegal trade to robust fiscal contributions.

The leadership of the Kano/Jigawa Customs Area Command has reiterated its commitment to continuous vigilance. Officers are mandated to remain alert and proactive in identifying and preventing any activities that contravene established laws and regulations. This proactive stance is crucial for sustaining the momentum against illicit trade and ensuring the protection of national assets and adherence to legal frameworks, particularly in combating West African sub-region wildlife trafficking.

This significant interception by Nigeria Customs signals heightened enforcement against wildlife trafficking, requiring compliance officers to review supply chain due diligence for CITES-listed species and lawyers to advise clients on potential liabilities under the NCS Act 2023 and relevant international conventions.

Source: Original reporting via PUNCH.