Nigerian Customs Seize 120 Parrots Worth N60Million From Smugglers

The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted a major wildlife trafficking operation involving endangered African Grey Parrots, with officials estimating the value of the birds at over N60 million on the black market in Abuja.

The seizure was disclosed during a press briefing on Wednesday by the Customs Area Comptroller of Adamawa/Taraba Area Command, Gambo Bature Bashir, held at the Customs House in Yola.

According to the Command, 120 African Grey Parrots were rescued from wildlife smugglers attempting to transport them through Nigeria’s northeastern corridor.

While speaking to journalists, the Customs Area Controller emphasised the market value of the seized birds, revealing that each African Grey Parrot can fetch up to N500,000 in the capital city, Abuja.

“These birds are highly sought after in the exotic pet trade due to their intelligence and ability to mimic human speech,” Bashir stated. “Sadly, many are captured illegally, kept in cruel conditions, and trafficked across borders for profit.”

At N500,000 per bird, the total street value of the intercepted parrots stands at a staggering N60 million.

The African Grey Parrot is listed as endangered under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Despite this, illegal trafficking of the birds remains rampant in West Africa due to weak enforcement and high market demand.

The Customs Area Comptroller expressed concern over the increasing trend of smuggling and reiterated the command’s commitment to curbing illicit trade.

The rescued birds, reportedly in poor condition, have been handed over to wildlife protection agencies for rehabilitation.

The Adamawa/Taraba Command stated that it will intensify surveillance along known smuggling routes and collaborate with security and environmental agencies to enforce anti-smuggling laws.

“We’re sending a strong message to traffickers: wildlife crimes will not go unpunished,” the Controller declared.

African Grey Parrots are protected under both Nigerian law and international conventions.