By: Manoah Kikekon
Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, Ikeja, have successfully saved three live pangolins from illegal traffickers during a targeted anti-smuggling crackdown near Oyo Dam at Igbo-Ora, Ogun State.
The successful operation unfolded on Monday, 12 October 2026, following actionable intelligence received by the unit. The endangered mammals were found hidden within a wire-mesh enclosure inside a heavy sack. Upon spotting the approaching Customs patrol officers, the fleeing smugglers abandoned the animals and escaped into nearby swampy terrain.
Representing Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, the Acting Comptroller of FOU Zone ‘A’, Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement Oluwaseun Oguntuase lauded the team's swift and alert action. He emphasized that the interception marks a notable triumph in the agency's broader campaign to eradicate organized illegal wildlife trade and protect the nation's natural environment.
According to Oguntuase, the interception reflects the division's unwavering resolve to safeguard local biodiversity and dismantle the criminal syndicates exploiting Nigeria's land borders and aquatic routes.
"Pangolins enjoy strict international protection under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which strictly governs global commerce in vulnerable wildlife. Illicit trafficking poses a grave threat to conservation and ecological balance.
The three rescued pangolins have been safely transferred to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for professional care, rehabilitation, and sanctuary," he noted.
Issueing a stern caution to syndicates involved in illegal animal trafficking, the command warned that enforcement will only intensify.
The service reiterated its commitment to expanding patrol operations, leveraging intelligence networks, and strengthening cross-agency partnerships to preserve endangered species and eliminate illicit wildlife supply chains.