Nigeria Customs Intensifies Crackdown On Wildlife Trafficking After Pangolin Interception

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja, Lagos, has intercepted three live pangolins during an anti-smuggling operation along Oyo Dam at Igbo-Ora, Ogun State, in a move aimed at curbing illegal wildlife trafficking and protecting endangered species.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the interception took place on Monday, October 12, 2026, when Customs officers acting on credible intelligence discovered the animals concealed inside a wire-mesh cage placed in a sack.

The suspected traffickers reportedly abandoned the consignment and fled into a nearby swamp after sighting the patrol team, escaping before they could be apprehended.

The Acting Comptroller of FOU Zone A, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Oladapo Afeni, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday, October 25, 2026. He was represented by the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase.

Afeni commended the officers involved in the operation for their alertness and swift response, describing the interception as an important achievement in the Service’s efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and organised smuggling.

He said the operation reflected the Unit’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity and disrupting criminal networks involved in the illegal exploitation of the country’s borders and waterways.

The Customs official noted that pangolins are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), an international agreement that regulates trade in endangered wildlife.

He warned that the illegal trade in pangolins poses a serious threat to wildlife conservation and biodiversity, given the animals’ protected status and vulnerability to trafficking.

According to the statement, the three rescued pangolins have been transferred to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and appropriate care.

Afeni also warned individuals involved in illegal wildlife trade to desist from the practice, stressing that the Service would continue to strengthen its enforcement activities.

He said FOU Zone A would intensify patrols, intelligence-led operations and collaboration with relevant agencies to protect endangered species and prevent the illegal movement of wildlife.

The interception underscores ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Customs Service to tackle smuggling and safeguard the country’s natural resources, as authorities continue to pursue those involved in the illegal wildlife trade.