Group seeks stronger protection of parrots in Nigeria
By Fabian Ekeruche
The Wild Africa and the World Parrot Trust have called for stronger protection of parrots in Nigeria, as the world celebrates the World Parrot Day.
This is contained in a statement jointly issued by the Nigeria Representatives of the Group on Saturday in Lagos.
The statement said the call had become expedient amid the continued illegal trade of different parrot species.
“The World Parrot Day reminds us of parrots’ crucial role in ecosystems and the need to protect their habitats.
“Originating from various regions across the globe, parrots play a vital role in maintaining healthy forest ecosystems by dispersing seeds and helping forests regenerate,” it said.
The group said parrots, especially the African Grey Parrot that was once common in Nigeria’s forests, are quickly disappearing due to decades of trapping and trafficking.
The statement said in spite of the national and international laws protecting parrots, weak enforcement and exotic pet trade had continued to drive illegal activities.
It noted that over 1.2 million wild-caught grey parrots entered international trade in four decades.
The statement said 40-60 per cent die during capture and transport.
“It is estimated that the total number could be as high as three million,” said the statement.
It said that in recent months, Nigeria has recorded positive developments in its fight against the illegal trade of parrots.
“In March 2025, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted over 300 parrot heads, drawing national and international attention to the brutality of the trade.
“In early May, officials from the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the National Park Service (NPS) arrested three suspected wildlife traffickers in Abuja, who were found with live African grey parrots as well as other species.
“Meanwhile, in April, Nigeria Special Wildlife Officers seized 12 live grey parrots that were being transported via bus between Kaduna and Lagos. The rescued parrots are being rehabilitated at Pandrillus Nigeria Drill Ranch,” the statement said.
The statement quoted Dr Mark Ofua, Wild Africa’s West Africa spokesperson as saying that parrots are keystone species.
“Parrots are keystone species, intelligent, social, and ecologically crucial. Their decline reflects the health of entire ecosystems.
“Parrots are more than just brilliant colours and clever mimicry—they are vital ambassadors of our planet’s wild places.
“On the World Parrot Day, let’s honour their intelligence and resilience by protecting the forests they call home and the freedom they deserve. May we listen, love, and never let their voices fade into silence,” Ofua said.
The statement also quoted Mr Ifeanyi Ezenwa, Nigeria Country Coordinator, World Parrot Trust, as saying that grey parrots are in serious trouble in Nigeria.
“Our research shows that grey parrots in Nigeria are in serious trouble. It’s enormously encouraging to see the intensified efforts by NESREA, NCS, and NPS to stop illegal trade and protect the remaining populations of parrots in the wild.
“However, sadly, many people are still unaware of how the exploitation of parrots is destroying our natural heritage,” he said.
The group noted that Nigeria had taken significant steps to combat the illegal trade of parrots and other protected species by introducing the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill.
It called for the quick passage of the bill to support the ongoing law enforcement efforts.
“In addition, more public education is needed to reduce the demand for parrots as pets.
“Both Wild Africa and World Parrot Trust will continue to advocate stronger conservation policies and initiatives that safeguard Nigeria’s parrots using a combination of radio, TV, billboards, and newspaper publications.
“Wild Africa and the World Parrot Trust call on governments, businesses, and individuals to come together and take meaningful action to protect parrots before it’s too late,” the statement added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chidinma Agu/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma
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