Customs FOU Zone A Intercepts Five Live Pangolins In Ogun, Hands Over To Wildlife Centre

By Stella Okocha 

The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone A, has rescued five live pangolins during an intelligence-driven operation along Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis of Ogun State.

The interception occurred at about 1:18am on Friday, October 23, 2026, following credible intelligence on movement of endangered wildlife.

According to the Unit, patrol team intercepted the pangolins confined in wire-mesh cages and concealed to evade detection. Suspected traffickers abandoned the animals and fled on sighting Customs officers.

The rescued pangolins were handed over to Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and eventual release into protected habitat. The handover was conducted by Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, on behalf of Acting Controller of the Unit, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni.

Speaking during handover, Oguntuase said interception of wildlife consignments within about seven days in separate operations underscores need for extensive investigation to identify and dismantle smuggling syndicates behind illicit movement of endangered species.

He said operation reflects Service’s renewed resolve to combat wildlife trafficking, protect endangered species and enforce Nigeria’s obligations under Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, CITES, and Endangered Species Act. Pangolins are protected under CITES Appendix I which prohibits international commercial trade in wild-caught pangolins, while Nigeria’s Endangered Species Act prohibits hunting, capture and trade.

“Pangolins are among the world’s most trafficked mammals. This seizure is another clear warning to those involved in illegal wildlife trade that Nigeria’s borders and transport corridors remain under active surveillance,” Oguntuase said.

He added that FOU Zone A will sustain intelligence-led operations, strengthen collaboration with conservation agencies and ensure rescued animals receive required care, stressing that those who engage in wildlife trafficking will face full weight of law.

Receiving animals, Dr. Austin Tochukwu of Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre commended Customs for vigilance and prompt intervention, assuring organisation would provide necessary care and work towards rehabilitation and eventual release into safe environment.

The Service reaffirmed that protection of Nigeria’s biodiversity remains national responsibility requiring sustained cooperation among government agencies, conservation partners and citizens.