The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully repatriated a rescued baby gorilla, named Bili, to the Republic of Congo. This operation, which took place from 22nd to 28th September 2026, marks the Service's first international full-cycle wildlife operation. Bili was rescued in August 2023 by NCS officers during enforcement operations against wildlife trafficking.
After being placed under the care of the Pandrillus Foundation in Calabar for rehabilitation, a DNA test confirmed that Bili originated from the Republic of Congo. Consequently, officials arranged for Bili's repatriation from Calabar to Lagos, and then airlifted him to the Congo via DHL at no cost. A caregiver and a veterinary doctor accompanied Bili during the journey to ensure his well-being.
The repatriation of Bili was carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). As Bili is listed under Appendix I of CITES, he is afforded the highest level of protection as a species threatened with extinction. This operation demonstrates Nigeria's commitment to protecting endangered species and enforcing international wildlife protection obligations.
According to Abdullahi Maiwada, Deputy Comptroller of Customs and Customs National Public Relations Officer, the NCS has intensified enforcement against illegal wildlife trade. Between January and September 2026, the Special Wildlife Office (SWO) and Customs Area Commands recorded 22 wildlife seizures, rescued 699 live animals, and arrested 11 suspects.
The seizures included 220 kilogrammes of pangolin scales, 48 elephant tusks, and 219.05 kilogrammes of worked ivory, alongside various live endangered and protected species intercepted across different locations. Notable interventions included the rescue of pangolins, primates, lion cubs, hyenas, crowned cranes, tortoises, gorillas, and chimpanzees.
The NCS acknowledged the support of the Pandrillus Foundation, DHL, Focused Conservation, the Aspinall Wildlife Trust, the CITES Desk of the Federal Ministry of Environment, and the Government of the Republic of Congo for facilitating Bili's repatriation. The Service reaffirmed its commitment to not only revenue generation but also national security and environmental protection.
The NCS urged members of the public to report any information on illegal wildlife trade to the nearest Customs formation. With this successful repatriation, the Service has demonstrated its sustained efforts to disrupt the illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered species. Bili was returned to the Réserve Naturelle de Tchimpounga, Département du Kouilou, Pointe-Noire, in the Republic of Congo.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service carried out its first international full-cycle wildlife operation, covering interception, rescue, rehabilitation, and safe return of a trafficked animal.
- Bili, the rescued baby gorilla, was repatriated to the Republic of Congo after being rehabilitated and confirmed to be from the region through a DNA test.
- The operation was conducted in accordance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.
