The Nigeria Customs Service Special Wildlife Office, Kano/Jigawa Area Command, has intercepted 420 kilogrammes of pangolin scales in Kano State.
According to the Area Controller, Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, the seizure was carried out on the on 16th July, 2025.
While speaking to the press on 17th July,2025, he said the operation was conducted by a joint team from the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, including officers from the Special Wildlife Office, Customs Intelligence Unit, and the Customs Police Unit. While acting on credible intelligence, the officers tracked and recovered the illegal consignment in a Kano suburb and arrested one suspect in connection with the crime.
He described the seizure as a critical move in the fight against illicit international trade in endangered species. He noted that pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals in the world, and the removal of such a large quantity of scales from illegal circulation is a major blow to trafficking networks.
The Controller emphasised that beyond disrupting criminal activities, the operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its natural resources and upholding both local and international laws, including the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
He commended the dedication and professionalism of the officers involved, attributing the success to their vigilance and teamwork. He also expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for providing the leadership and operational environment necessary for such achievements.
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