Customs Rescues Eight Pangolins in Ogun, Oyo

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Officials of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have rescued eight live pangolins in two separate anti-smuggling operations in Oyo and Ogun States.

A statement from the agency disclosed that the smuggling was thwarted by officials of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the agency.

It was learned that customs officers acted on credible intelligence to intercept the animals kept in wire-mesh cages. At the same time, the suspected traffickers abandoned them and fled upon sighting the patrol team.

According to the statement, three of the pangolins were rescued along the Oyo Dam/Igbo-Ora axis of Oyo State on October 12, 2026, while five more were rescued from the Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis of Ogun State on October 23, 2026.

The five pangolins rescued in Ogun State were subsequently handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and eventual release into a protected habitat.

Speaking during the handover, the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Mr Oluwaseun Oguntuase, said the interceptions within a short period underscored the need for extensive investigations to identify and dismantle the syndicates behind wildlife trafficking.

Describing pangolins as among the world’s most trafficked mammals, Mr Oguntuase said, “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.”

He reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to intelligence-led operations and collaboration with conservation agencies to protect endangered species.

Receiving the animals, Austin Tochukwu of the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre commended the Service for its vigilance and prompt intervention, assuring that the organisation would provide the necessary care and work towards their rehabilitation and eventual release into a safe, protected environment.