The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, has rescued five live pangolins during an intelligence-led anti-smuggling operation along the Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis of Ogun State, intensifying efforts to combat the illegal trafficking of endangered wildlife.
The interception, which occurred at about 1:18 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, followed credible intelligence regarding the suspected movement of endangered animals.
According to the Service, officers intercepted the pangolins confined in wire-mesh cages and concealed in a manner suggesting an attempt to evade detection. The suspected traffickers reportedly abandoned the animals and fled upon sighting the Customs patrol team.
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.
Speaking during the handover, Oguntuase said the interception of another wildlife consignment within approximately seven days highlighted the need for further investigations to identify and dismantle the syndicates behind the illegal trade in endangered species.
He said the operation demonstrated the Service’s renewed commitment to combating wildlife trafficking, protecting endangered animals and enforcing Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), alongside relevant national legislation.
Oguntuase 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.
“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,” he said.
He assured that FOU Zone ‘A’ would sustain intelligence-driven enforcement operations, strengthen collaboration with conservation agencies and other relevant stakeholders, and ensure that rescued wildlife receives appropriate care.
“Those who engage in wildlife trafficking will be made to face the full weight of the law,” Oguntuase warned.
Receiving the rescued animals, Dr. Austin Tochukwu of the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre commended the Customs Service for its vigilance and prompt intervention.
He assured that the organisation would provide the necessary care and facilitate the pangolins’ rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of releasing them into a safe and protected environment.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed that protecting the country’s biodiversity requires sustained cooperation among government agencies, conservation organisations and members of the public.
The latest interception underscores ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal wildlife trafficking networks and safeguard endangered species from exploitation.
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