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Officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ have rescued five live pangolins from suspected wildlife traffickers in Ogun State, the Unit’s second wildlife seizure in about a week.
The suspects abandoned the animals and fled when they saw the patrol team on the Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis at about 1:18am on Friday, 23 October 2026. Acting on credible intelligence, officers found the pangolins in wire-mesh cages, concealed to avoid detection.
The pangolins were handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for care, rehabilitation and eventual release into a protected habitat. Deputy Comptroller Oluwaseun Oguntuase, in charge of Enforcement, conducted the handover for the Acting Controller of the Unit, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni.
Oguntuase said two wildlife interceptions within roughly seven days, in separate operations, show the need for deeper investigation to identify and dismantle the syndicates behind the trade.
“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.
Pangolins are listed under CITES Appendix I, which bans international commercial trade in wild-caught pangolins and their derivatives. Nigeria’s Endangered Species (Control of International Trade and Traffic) Act also prohibits hunting, capture and trade in the animals. Oguntuase said the operation reflects the Service’s resolve to enforce these obligations.
He said FOU Zone ‘A’ will sustain intelligence-led operations and work more closely with conservation agencies and other stakeholders. “Those who engage in wildlife trafficking will be made to face the full weight of the law,” he added.
Dr. Austin Tochukwu of Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre commended Customs for its vigilance and quick response, and promised proper care and rehabilitation until the animals can be released safely.
The Service said protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity is a shared responsibility of government agencies, conservation partners and citizens.
