The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja, said it intercepted four live pangolins during a targeted patrol at Alapa Creek, Ajilete community, in Ogun State. Upon spotting the officers, the suspects fled into the creeks, abandoning both the pangolins and the boat”, he stated. According to him, to ensure the welfare of the animals, the seized endangered species were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre for safekeeping. Aliyu reaffirmed the unit’s commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and partnering with stakeholders to eradicate trade in endangered species. PUNCH Online reports that CITES is a multilateral international agreement established in 1973 to regulate international trade in wild animals and plants.

Source: Punch January 19, 2026 20:33 UTC