The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A has warned that persons involved in the smuggling, possession, transportation or commercialisation of endangered species risk prosecution and severe penalties under applicable laws in the country.
 
The Acting Comptroller of the unit, Oladapo Afeni, stated this when officers intercepted three live pangolins during an anti-smuggling operation along the Oyo Dam in Igbo-Ora, Ogun State.
 
Afeni, who was represented by the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, said the seizure was effected on October 12, 2026.
   
The Acting Comptroller said officers of the unit acted on credible intelligence and intercepted a sack containing the endangered animals, concealed in a wire-mesh cage.
   
Afeni said upon sighting the Customs patrol team, the suspected traffickers abandoned the consignment and fled into the surrounding swamp, leaving behind the animals.
 
The Acting Comptroller described the interception as a significant milestone in the Service’s sustained campaign against wildlife trafficking, smuggling and other transnational organised crimes.
   
He stated that pangolins are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and their illegal trade remains a serious threat to wildlife conservation. 
   
Afeni commended the operatives for their vigilance and prompt response, noting that the operation underscored the Unit’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s biodiversity and disrupt criminal networks exploiting the country’s borders and waterways.
 
To guarantee their safety and welfare, Afeni handed over the rescued pangolins to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and appropriate management.
 
The Acting Comptroller warned smugglers and their collaborators that the FOU Zone A would continue to intensify patrols, intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration across its area of responsibility. 

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi, and the Service to securing Nigeria’s borders, protecting endangered species, and supporting national and international efforts against the illegal wildlife trade.