Customs Rescues Endangered Pangolins in Ogun Operation

On October 12, 2026, at approximately 9:05 am, operatives from the Federal Operations Unit Zone A intercepted three endangered pangolins in Ogun during an anti-smuggling operation. The suspected traffickers fled into a nearby swamp upon sighting the Customs officials, abandoning the animals concealed in a sack inside a wire-mesh cage.

Acting Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, represented by Deputy Comptroller Oluwaseun Oguntuase, described the interception as a significant milestone in the fight against wildlife trafficking and transnational organized crime. He praised the operatives for their vigilance and swift action, emphasizing the importance of protecting Nigeria's biodiversity.

The rescued pangolins were handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping and rehabilitation. Afeni warned that individuals involved in the illegal trade of endangered species would face prosecution under Nigerian laws.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to securing Nigeria's borders and combating illegal wildlife trade.