The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘B’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-trafficking operations, intercepting two live pangolins along the Kano-Jigawa axis.
The seizure was made by operatives of the Unit during a stop-and-search operation on March 12, 2026, when they flagged down a vehicle conveying the animals illegally.
“The seizure was effected pursuant to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), an international agreement that prohibits trade threatening the survival of wild species.
“Upon interception, the animals were secured in appropriate cages and conveyed to the FOU Zone ‘B’ headquarters in Kaduna. Physical examination showed each pangolin weighed approximately 15 kg,” the Unit stated.
The Controller of the Unit, Comptroller Aminu Sule, ordered a full-scale investigation to determine the source and intended destination of the endangered species.
“This seizure sends a clear message that Zone ‘B’ will not be a transit point for wildlife traffickers,” Comptroller Sule said.
He noted that pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals in the world, stressing that the interception highlights the Unit’s commitment to combating illegal wildlife trade.
He reiterated the Service‘s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and international treaties aimed at protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity.
