By Sandra Chukwunyere
The NigeriaCustomsService, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, Ikeja, Lagos, has intercepted three live pangolins during an anti-smuggling operation along Oyo Dam at Igbo-Ora in Ogun State.
The operation took place on Monday, October 12, 2026, at about 9:05 a.m., following credible intelligence received by officers of the Unit.
The pangolins were discovered inside a sack and concealed in a wire-mesh cage. The suspected traffickers reportedly abandoned the animals and fled into a nearby swamp after sighting the Customs patrol team.
According to a statement signed by Hussaini Abdullahi, Chief Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer of FOU Zone ‘A’, the Acting Comptroller of the Unit, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, represented by the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, described the interception as a significant milestone in the Service’s efforts to combat wildlife trafficking, smuggling and other transnational organised crimes.
Afeni commended the officers for their vigilance and prompt response, noting that the operation reflected the Unit’s determination to protect Nigeria’s biodiversity and disrupt criminal networks exploiting the country’s borders and waterways.
Pangolins are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates international trade in endangered wildlife. The illegal trade in these animals remains a major threat to their survival and wildlife conservation.
The Customs Service warned that individuals involved in the illegal possession, transportation, smuggling or commercialisation of endangered species risk prosecution and severe penalties under applicable Nigerian laws.
To ensure their safety and welfare, the three rescued pangolins have been handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and appropriate care.
Afeni warned smugglers and their collaborators that FOU Zone ‘A’ would continue to intensify patrols, strengthen intelligence-led operations and deepen collaboration with relevant agencies to tackle smuggling and other illegal activities across its area of responsibility.
He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, Psc(+),k and the Service to securing Nigeria’s borders, protecting endangered species and supporting national and international efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade.
