Customs FOU Zone A Intercepts Four Live Pangolins in Ajilete Creeks,Suspects Flee

By Sandra Chukwunyere

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, has made a significant breakthrough in protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity and upholding commitments under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

On January 15, 2026, at approximately 18:33 hours, operatives intercepted four live pangolins during a targeted patrol along the waterways of Alapa Creek, Ajilete.

The patrol team, acting on credible intelligence, stopped a wooden boat laden with the pangolins in wire mesh cages, indicating a deliberate smuggling syndicate. The suspects fled into the creeks, abandoning both the pangolins and the boat, upon spotting the Officers.

To ensure the animals’ welfare, the seized endangered species were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre for safekeeping on January 16, 2026, at 07:00 hours. Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, DC AO Oguntuase, performed the handover on behalf of Comptroller FOU Zone A, Gambo Aliyu.

Comptroller Aliyu commended the officers’ courage and professionalism during the nighttime operation, urging all personnel to remain vigilant against trans-border crimes. He reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and partnering with stakeholders to eradicate trade in endangered species.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, praised the officers for their dedication to CITES enforcement, emphasizing the administration’s zero-tolerance stance against saboteurs undermining Nigeria’s CITES compliance and economic stability ¹.

The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to protecting endangered species and preserving biodiversity. This interception highlights the Service’s efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and uphold international commitments.

The seized pangolins are currently under the care of the Wildlife Conservation Centre, receiving necessary attention to ensure their well-being.

The NCS urges the public to support efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and protect Nigeria’s natural heritage.

In a statement by CSC Hussaini Abdullahi, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Public Relations Officer, Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja-Lagos, January 19, 2026.

“We commend the bravery and professionalism of our officers in intercepting the four live pangolins. This operation demonstrates our commitment to ensure the safety of endangered species and uphold Nigeria’s international obligations”.