June 3, 2025 | Lagos, Nigeria — A joint intelligence-led investigation targeting the illegal trade of protected parrots has resulted in a significant enforcement success just a day after World Parrot Day. On June 1, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Special Wildlife Office, supported by Focused Conservation and the NCS Intelligence Unit, launched Operation Metsonia outside Lagos, leading to the seizure of 12 trafficked birds and the arrest of an international wildlife trafficker with suspected links to Benin.
The operation resulted in the recovery of:
- 6 African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus)
- 4 Senegal Parrots (Poicephalus senegalus)
- 2 Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)
These species—especially the African Grey Parrot—are under increasing threat due to high demand in the illegal pet trade, habitat loss, and organized trafficking networks operating across West and Central Africa. The African Grey is listed on Appendix I of CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), reflecting its critically endangered status and the global urgency of its protection.
The birds were immediately transferred to the Greenfingers Conservation Initiative sanctuary, where they are now receiving professional veterinary care and rehabilitation in a secure and species-appropriate environment.
“This operation underscores the value of strategic intelligence sharing and frontline collaboration,” said Eric Stouch for Focused Conservation. “We are incredibly proud of the Nigeria Customs officers who carried out this work and remain committed to supporting African enforcement teams in disrupting wildlife crime at every level.”
The suspect taken into custody is believed to be part of a wider trafficking network operating between Nigeria and Benin. Investigations are ongoing to identify additional actors and routes involved in this illicit trade.
Focused Conservation commends the dedication and professionalism of the Nigeria Customs Service team and continues to support similar enforcement efforts across Africa. As wildlife traffickers become more sophisticated, so must the responses of those working to stop them. Operation Metsonia is a strong example of what can be achieved when agencies work together with purpose, training, and trusted partners.
