Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, have intercepted four live pangolins in Ajilete creeks, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to the protection of endangered species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The interception occurred at about 6:33 p.m. on Thursday, January 15th, 2026, during a targeted nighttime patrol along the waterways of Alapa Creek, Ajilete. A patrol team acting on credible intelligence, stopped a wooden boat conveying the endangered animals, which were found confined in wire mesh cages an indication of an organised smuggling operation.
According to the press release issued by zone’s Public Relations Officer , Chief Superintendent of Customs , Hussaini Abdullahi, the suspects abandoned the boat and the animals and fled into the creeks on sighting the patrol team, evading arrest. The four live pangolins were subsequently secured by the officers to prevent further harm.
To ensure their safety and proper care, the seized animals were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre on Friday, January 16, 2026, at about 7:00 a.m. The handover was carried out by the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, DC A.O. Oguntuase, on behalf of Comptroller, FOU Zone A, Gambo Aliyu.
Commending the operatives for their bravery and professionalism during the operation, Comptroller Aliyu described the seizure as a clear demonstration of the Unit’s resolve to combat trans-border crimes, particularly the illegal trade in wildlife. He urged officers to sustain vigilance and intelligence led patrols across the zone.
The Comptroller further reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and strengthening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to eradicate the trafficking of endangered species.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, praised the officers for the successful interception, noting that it aligns with his administration’s zero tolerance policy toward activities that undermine Nigeria’s CITES obligations and economic stability.
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