Customs FOU Zone A reiterates commitment to wildlife protection, rescues four pangolins

The Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, has reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and collaborating with relevant stakeholders to eradicate illegal trade in endangered species.

Comptroller Gambo Aliyu stated this when the Unit on January 16, 2026 handed over four live pangolins intercepted by its operatives to the Wildlife Conservation Centre.

In a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Unit, CSC Hussaini Abdullahi, the pangolins, which were intercepted during a targeted patrol along the waterways of Alapa Creek in Ajilete, were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Center by the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, A.O. Oguntuase, on behalf of the Controller.

The statement noted that the operation was intelligence-driven and aimed at disrupting wildlife trafficking routes within the area.

The Unit officers stopped a wooden boat conveying the endangered animals, which were confined in wire mesh cages, suggesting the activities of an organized smuggling syndicate. On sighting the operatives, the suspects reportedly jumped into the creeks and escaped, abandoning both the pangolins and the boat.

Comptroller Aliyu commended his officers for their courage and professionalism during the night operation, urging personnel to remain vigilant in the fight against trans-border crimes.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, also praised the officers for their dedication to the enforcement of CITES regulations, stressing the Service’s zero-tolerance policy toward individuals and groups undermining Nigeria’s international obligations and economic stability.

The Nigeria Customs Service reiterated its resolve to protect endangered species and preserve the nation’s biodiversity, noting that the successful interception underscores its sustained efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.

The Service further called on members of the public to support ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and safeguard Nigeria’s natural heritage.