The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has rescued three live pangolins concealed in sacks during an intelligence-led patrol along the Abeokuta waterside in Ogun State.
The endangered mammals were subsequently handed over to the Green Fingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative for proper care, in a move aimed at protecting vulnerable wildlife and combating illegal animal trafficking.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Zakari Chado, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, October 8, 2026, on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abdulhamid Ibrahim.
According to the statement, the operation followed credible intelligence, leading to the discovery of the pangolins, which had been tightly bound in sacks in an apparent attempt to evade detection.
The statement described the method of concealment as cruel, adding that the circumstances surrounding the interception suggested possible involvement of an organised wildlife trafficking network.
It said the suspects abandoned the animals and fled upon sensing the presence of Customs operatives.
The Command said the successful interception underscored the Service’s commitment to enforcing the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and curbing the illegal trade in protected wildlife.
Ibrahim warned that wildlife trafficking would attract severe legal consequences under applicable Nigerian laws, citing provisions of the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, which he said prescribe fines of up to ₦12 million and prison terms of up to 10 years.
“We remain steadfast in our vigilance against trans-border crime and committed to collaborating with our partners to eliminate the illegal trade of endangered species,” he said.
The Acting Controller commended the operational team for its vigilance and professionalism, warning traffickers that the Command would continue efforts to identify and apprehend individuals involved in activities that undermine wildlife protection laws.
The rescued pangolins were handed over to Green Fingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative in line with Nigeria’s legal framework for controlling international trade in and trafficking of endangered species.
Receiving the animals, the organisation’s Administrative Manager and Supervisor, Isaac Ime, commended Customs for the successful operation and reaffirmed the initiative’s commitment to providing the rescued mammals with the necessary care.
“Nigeria Customs holds a significant role in the fight against illegal wildlife trade, and I am assuring you that we at Green Fingers Wildlife will do our best to provide necessary care for the surviving pangolins,” Ime said.
The development highlights the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and wildlife conservation organisations in combating illegal trafficking and safeguarding endangered species.
The Customs Command reiterated its determination to sustain intelligence-led operations and strengthen partnerships to prevent the illegal exploitation and trafficking of protected wildlife.
