The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, has rescued five live pangolins during an intelligence-led anti-smuggling operation in Ogun State, raising fresh concerns over the illegal trafficking of endangered wildlife in Nigeria.
The animals were intercepted at about 1:18 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, along the Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis of the state, following credible intelligence about the suspected movement of protected wildlife.
According to the Customs Service, the pangolins were found confined in wire-mesh cages and concealed in a manner believed to have been intended to evade detection. The suspected traffickers reportedly abandoned the animals and fled upon sighting the Customs patrol team.
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Following the operation, the rescued pangolins were handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and eventual release into a protected habitat.
The handover was conducted by the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, on behalf of the Acting Controller of FOU Zone ‘A’, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni.
### Customs Calls for Investigation into Wildlife Trafficking
Speaking during the handover, Oguntuase said the interception of wildlife consignments in separate operations within approximately seven days highlighted the need for a comprehensive investigation into the activities of suspected wildlife smuggling syndicates.
He stressed that identifying and dismantling the networks responsible for the illegal movement of endangered species remained crucial to curbing wildlife trafficking.
Oguntuase added that the latest operation demonstrated the Service’s renewed commitment to protecting endangered animals, combating smuggling and enforcing Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
He noted that pangolins are listed under Appendix I of CITES, which prohibits international commercial trade in wild-caught specimens and their derivatives, subject to the convention’s applicable provisions.
Nigeria’s Endangered Species (Control of International Trade and Traffic) Act also provides legal protections against prohibited activities involving endangered wildlife.
“Pangolins are among the world’s most trafficked mammals. This seizure is another clear warning to those involved in the illegal wildlife trade that Nigeria’s borders and transport corridors remain under active surveillance,” Oguntuase said.
He further assured that FOU Zone ‘A’ would continue to conduct intelligence-led operations and strengthen partnerships with conservation organisations and other relevant stakeholders to protect endangered species.
The Deputy Comptroller warned that individuals involved in wildlife trafficking would face the full weight of the law.
### Wildlife Centre Assures Proper Care for Rescued Pangolins
Receiving the animals, Dr Austin Tochukwu of the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and prompt intervention.
He assured the Service that the organisation would provide the necessary care for the rescued pangolins and work towards their rehabilitation before releasing them into a safe, protected environment.
The handover forms part of efforts to ensure that rescued wildlife receives appropriate treatment rather than being returned to conditions that could expose the animals to further harm.
### Customs Reaffirms Commitment to Biodiversity Protection
The Nigeria Customs Service reiterated that protecting the country’s biodiversity requires sustained cooperation among government agencies, conservation organisations and members of the public.
The Service also emphasised the importance of continued surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent the illegal capture, transportation and trade of endangered animals.
The latest rescue underscores ongoing concerns about wildlife trafficking and the need for stronger enforcement of conservation laws to protect Nigeria’s natural heritage.
Report by Hussaini Abdullahi, Chief Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer, for the Acting Comptroller, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’, Ikeja, Lagos.
