The Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) on Tuesday destroyed confiscated donkey hides worth N413 million in Kano.

The Zonal Coordinator of NAQS, Adamu Ocheje, who led the exercise at its headquarters in Ungogo Local Government Area, said the Nigerian Customs Service confiscated the hides in Kano.

He said that NAQS was not opposed to trading in donkey hides, but that it was against the ceaseless exploitation of donkeys without restocking.

He said the practice, if not checked, will drive the endangered species to extinction.

The zonal coordinator commended Nigerian Customs Service and other sister agencies for the synergy and support rendered to the agency.

Mr Ocheje also lauded efforts of the Comptroller General of Quarantine for providing an enabling environment for them to discharge their responsibilities effectively.

Earlier, Customs Area Controller, Kano/Jigawa command, Muhammad Umar, while handing over the products, said the animal hide was intercepted by his men in Kano.

He said the command was going to widen its investigation to ensure that no unhealthy item escapes into the country.

Mr Umar said that the command had confiscated 3,712 pieces of donkey skin and three bags of donkey organs measuring 100kg worth N413 million.

The controller restated commitment of the service to partner with other security agencies to address security challenges in the country.

(NAN)