The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja, Lagos, intercepted a 40-foot container carrying 4,410 pieces of dried donkey skins valued at approximately N4.2 billion. This seizure underscores the ongoing challenges and enforcement efforts related to wildlife trafficking in Nigeria.

Details of the Seizure

Addressing the media at the Command headquarters in Ikeja, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of FOU Zone A, Kola Oladeji, detailed the interception, which occurred on Monday, February 3, 2025. The operation was part of a broader enforcement campaign between December 25, 2024, and February 4, 2025, during which the unit seized various contraband goods worth a total of N5.4 billion. Among these were foreign parboiled rice valued at N387 million, 2,725 parcels of cannabis sativa worth N218 million, and 397 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at N1.5 million. Additionally, 21 units of exotic vehicles, estimated at N561 million, were confiscated within the South West Zone during this period.

Significance of the Donkey Skin Seizure

The interception of the donkey skins is particularly noteworthy due to the scale and implications of the trade. Donkey skins are in high demand, primarily for the production of “ejiao,” a traditional Chinese medicine believed to have various health benefits. This demand has led to a surge in the illegal slaughter and trade of donkeys, raising concerns about animal welfare, species conservation, and the potential for illegal activities.

Legal and Environmental Implications

The trade in donkey skins is regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which aims to ensure that international trade does not threaten the survival of species. The large-scale slaughter of donkeys and the attempt to smuggle their skins out of Nigeria constitute a violation of CITES regulations. CAC Oladeji emphasized the gravity of this offense, stating, “With the slaughtering of over 4,000 donkeys and the attempt to smuggle them out of the country, CITES has been violated, and we shall investigate thoroughly to unmask the unscrupulous individuals behind this act.”

Associated Risks and Concerns

Beyond the legal violations, the illegal trade in donkey skins poses several risks:

• Biosecurity Hazards: The unregulated movement of animal products can facilitate the spread of diseases, posing threats to both animal and human health. A report by The Donkey Sanctuary highlighted that donkey skins are often transported alongside other wildlife products, exacerbating biosecurity risks.
• Links to Wildlife Trafficking: Research indicates that the donkey skin trade is frequently associated with the trafficking of other wildlife products, including those from endangered species. This convergence of illegal trades complicates enforcement efforts and amplifies conservation challenges.
• Economic Impact on Local Communities: Donkeys play a crucial role in the livelihoods of many rural communities in Nigeria. Their depletion due to illegal trade can adversely affect these communities, leading to economic hardships.

Enforcement Actions and Future Measures

In response to the seizure, six suspects have been arrested in connection with various prohibited goods, including the intercepted donkey skins and cannabis sativa. Some have been granted administrative bail, while investigations are ongoing. The NCS has also collected N60.9 million in revenue through the issuance of demand notices, achieved via regular documentation checks and profiling of suspected irregular import documents.

CAC Oladeji commended the officers involved in the operation for their diligence and integrity, noting that attempts were made by unidentified individuals to compromise the process, which the officers resisted. He also highlighted the importance of intelligence networks and collaboration with other security agencies in achieving these enforcement successes.

Conclusion

The recent interception of a large consignment of donkey skins by the Nigeria Customs Service highlights the ongoing challenges of wildlife trafficking and the importance of stringent enforcement measures. It underscores the need for continued vigilance, international cooperation, and public awareness to combat illegal wildlife trade and protect vulnerable species.