The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, has rescued eight live pangolins in two separate anti-smuggling operations in Oyo and Ogun States as part of efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species.
The animals were intercepted in two operations involving three pangolins along the Oyo Dam/Igbo-Ora axis of Oyo State and five others along the Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis of Ogun State on October 23.
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During the operation in Ogun State, Customs officers acting on credible intelligence intercepted the five animals confined in wire-mesh cages, while the suspected traffickers abandoned them and fled upon sighting the patrol team.
The rescued pangolins 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, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, said the interceptions within a short period underscored the need for extensive investigations to identify and dismantle the syndicates behind illegal wildlife trafficking.
He described pangolins as among the world’s most trafficked mammals and warned that the Service would sustain surveillance and enforcement operations against those involved in the illegal trade.
“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 said.
Oguntuase also emphasised the importance of intelligence-led operations and collaboration with conservation organisations in protecting endangered wildlife.
Receiving the animals, Austin Tochukwu of the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre commended the Customs Service for its vigilance and prompt intervention.
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He assured that the organisation would provide the necessary care for the rescued animals and facilitate their rehabilitation and eventual release into a safe, protected environment.
Customs Strengthens Partnership with NYSC
In a related development, FOU Zone A has expressed its readiness to strengthen its partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) following a familiarisation visit by the Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs Christiana Psanwang, to the Unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos.
Psanwang led a delegation of NYSC management staff on the visit on Friday, October 31, 2026, where they were received by the Acting Comptroller of FOU Zone A, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Oladapo Afeni.
Afeni acknowledged the NYSC scheme’s contribution to national unity and integration, noting that more than 80 corps members were currently serving in the Unit.
He said the Nigeria Customs Service recognised the importance of the scheme and remained committed to supporting its activities.
“The NYSC scheme plays a fundamental role in promoting national unity and integration, and the Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to supporting its activities,” he stated.
The Acting Comptroller assured the delegation of the Unit’s readiness to sustain its cordial relationship with the scheme and provide continued support for corps members serving in the organisation.
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In her remarks, Psanwang commended the Unit for providing a welcoming and supportive working environment for corps members, noting that feedback from those serving there reflected positive experiences.
She also appreciated the Unit’s open-door policy and called for sustained cooperation between the two organisations.