The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted an alleged international wildlife trafficking operation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, leading to the rescue of two live lion cubs and the arrest of three suspects.
The incident occurred on August 4, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation carried out by Customs officers at the airport’s Cargo Terminal.
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According to the Service, the suspects allegedly planned to move the lion cubs from Kano through Abuja, with Congo-Brazzaville listed as their intended final destination.
The operation was conducted by the Special Wildlife Office (SWO) of the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), working alongside the FCT CIU, Customs Police Unit (CPU), FCT Command and conservation partner Focused Conservation.
The operation reportedly began after Customs officers received actionable intelligence concerning the suspected movement of wildlife through the airport.
Officers subsequently placed a black SUV under surveillance at the Cargo Terminal. During a physical inspection of the vehicle, a CIU operative reportedly heard animal sounds coming from the rear compartment.
The officers opened the luggage area and discovered two lion cubs hidden inside crates.
The discovery led to the immediate arrest of three individuals allegedly connected to the shipment. According to Customs, those arrested included the alleged owner of the animals, the driver of the vehicle and a Customs clearing agent.
The suspects are currently being interrogated as investigators work to establish whether other individuals are connected to the alleged trafficking operation.
In an official report released on August 10, 2026, by Assistant Comptroller of Customs Anuhu Mani, Officer-in-Charge of the Special Wildlife Office, the Service highlighted the seriousness of the attempted trafficking.
Mani stated:
” This operation sends an unmistakable message that Nigeria will not serve as a transit hub or safe haven for wildlife trafficking syndicates,”
He further stated:
“With fewer lions remaining in Nigeria’s wild, saving these cubs is not just an enforcement success, it is a critical conservation victory. Our specialized unit will continue to leverage intelligence, profile trade routes, and prosecute those who profit from the illegal trade of our endangered species.”
According to the Customs Service, the movement of the animals allegedly violates important national and international wildlife protection regulations, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and Nigeria’s Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Following their rescue, the two lion cubs were transferred to the Greenfingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative for veterinary attention, rehabilitation and specialized care.
The rescue represents another significant intervention against the illegal movement of protected wildlife through Nigeria’s transport routes.
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