ABEOKUTA, Ogun State — The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has intercepted three live pangolins allegedly abandoned by suspected wildlife traffickers at Abeokuta waterside.
The seizure, which followed credible intelligence and a patrol operation by Customs operatives, highlights the Command’s renewed efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species in line with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
According to the Command, the suspects fled after sighting Customs officers, abandoning the animals at the scene. The three pangolins were found confined in wire-mesh cages and concealed inside sacks in what appeared to be an organised attempt to evade detection.
The Ag. Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, Deputy Comptroller Abdulhamid Ibrahim, subsequently handed over the rescued pangolins to Green Fingers Wildlife Conservation for proper rehabilitation and eventual release into a protected habitat.
Speaking during the handover, Ibrahim said pangolins are endangered species protected under Nigerian law, including the Endangered Species (Control of International Trade and Traffic) Act.
He warned that trafficking in pangolins and their derivatives attracts severe penalties, noting that under the recently passed Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, offenders could face fines of up to ₦12 million and imprisonment of up to 10 years.
Ibrahim commended the Customs officers involved in the operation for their courage and professionalism, stressing that the Command would continue to work with relevant agencies and conservation organisations to tackle trans-border crime and the illegal wildlife trade.
“We remain steadfast in our vigilance against trans-border crime and committed to collaborating with our partners to eliminate the illegal trade in endangered species,” he said.
Receiving the animals on behalf of Green Fingers Wildlife Conservation, the organisation’s Admin Manager/Supervisor, Mr. Isaac Itue Ime, commended the Ogun I Command for its vigilance and swift intervention.
Ime emphasised the critical role of the Customs Service in combating illegal wildlife trafficking and assured that Green Fingers Wildlife Conservation would provide the rescued pangolins with the necessary care and rehabilitation.
The Customs Area Controller also issued a stern warning to wildlife smugglers and traffickers, urging them to desist from the illegal trade.
He declared that the Command remains “battle-ready” and fully committed to tracking down and apprehending individuals involved in the smuggling of endangered wildlife.
Chado Zakari
Deputy Superintendent of Customs
Public Relations Officer
Ogun I Command, Idiroko, Ogun State
For: Ag. Customs Area Controller
8 October 2026
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