Nigeria Customs Intercepts 3 Live Pangolins, Foils Wildlife Smuggling in Ogun

By Saheed Olatunji, Reporter

The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ has foiled a wildlife trafficking attempt, rescuing three live pangolins.

Operatives of the Unit, it was gathered, seized the animals at 9:05 a.m. today during an early morning operation near the Oyo Dam in Igbo-Ora, Ogun State.

In a statement by Unit Public Relations Officer Hussein Abdulahi, customs officers acting on credible intelligence intercepted a sack containing the endangered animals, which were concealed in a wire-mesh cage. Upon sighting the patrol team, the suspected traffickers abandoned the consignment and fled into the surrounding swamp.

Highlighting the seizure as a major victory against smuggling, Deputy Comptroller Oluwaseun Oguntuase—representing Acting Comptroller Oladapo Afeni—said the bust marks a significant milestone in the fight against transnational organised crime.

He commended the team’s swift response, noting that the operation underscores the Unit’s determination to protect Nigeria’s biodiversity and disrupt criminal networks

Pangolins are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and their illegal trade remains a serious threat to wildlife conservation

The Service reminded the public that smuggling, possessing, transporting, or trading endangered species carries severe penalties and prosecution under Nigerian law.
To ensure their recovery and safety, the three rescued pangolins were transferred to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for rehabilitation and care.

Afeni issued a stern warning to smugglers and their accomplices, stating that FOU Zone ‘A’ will escalate patrols, intelligence-led operations, and collaborative efforts across its jurisdiction.

He concluded by emphasising the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service, led by Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to safeguard national borders, protect endangered wildlife, and reinforce international anti-trafficking initiatives.