FOU Zone A Rescues Another Five Live Pangolins in Ogun State
FOU Zone A Rescues Another Five Live Pangolins in Ogun State
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, has rescued five live pangolins during an intelligence-led anti-smuggling operation along the Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis of Ogun State.
The interception occurred at about 1:18 a.m. on Friday, 23 October 2026, following credible intelligence on the illicit movement of endangered wildlife. The patrol team discovered the pangolins confined in wire-mesh cages, concealed to evade detection. The suspected traffickers abandoned the animals and fled upon sighting Customs officers.
In line with the Service’s commitment to wildlife welfare, the pangolins were formally handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation, and eventual release into a protected habitat. The handover was conducted by Deputy Comptroller of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, on behalf of the Acting Controller of the Unit, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni.
Speaking at the handover, Oguntuase emphasized that the interception of wildlife consignments within a short period highlights the urgent need to dismantle smuggling syndicates behind the illegal trade. He reaffirmed the Service’s resolve to combat wildlife trafficking, protect endangered species, and enforce Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the Endangered Species Act.
“Pangolins are among the world’s most trafficked mammals. This seizure is another clear warning to those involved in the illegal wildlife trade that Nigeria’s borders and transport corridors remain under active surveillance,” Oguntuase stated.
He added that FOU Zone ‘A’ will sustain intelligence-driven operations, strengthen collaboration with conservation agencies, and ensure rescued animals receive proper care.
Receiving the animals, Dr. Austin Tochukwu of the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and assured that the pangolins would be rehabilitated and released into a safe environment.
The Service reiterated that protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity is a national responsibility requiring sustained cooperation among government agencies, conservation partners, and citizens.
