By Emmanuel Daniji

The Nigeria Customs Service has rescued three live pangolins from suspected wildlife traffickers in Ogun State, warning that it will intensify efforts to stop the illegal trade in endangered animals.

The animals were intercepted on Monday, October 12, during an anti-smuggling operation along Oyo Dam in Igbo-Ora, Ogun State, by officers of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja of the Nigeria Customs Service.

According to the Service, the pangolins were discovered inside a sack, concealed in a wire-mesh cage. The suspected traffickers reportedly abandoned the animals and fled into a nearby swamp after sighting the Customs patrol team.

The Acting Comptroller of the unit, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Oladapo Afeni, disclosed the development in a statement on Sunday, October 25. He commended the officers for their vigilance and quick response, describing the operation as an important step towards protecting Nigeria’s wildlife.

The rescued animals have been handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and proper care.

Afeni explained that pangolins are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates international trade in endangered wildlife.

He warned that the illegal capture and trade of these animals threaten biodiversity and conservation efforts.

The Customs official also cautioned individuals involved in wildlife trafficking, saying the unit would continue to strengthen patrols, intelligence-led operations and cooperation with other agencies to tackle the crime.

The rescue highlights the need to protect endangered species from illegal trade and ensure that animals taken from the wild are given the opportunity to survive in their natural environment.