LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- In a significant win for conservation, the Nigeria Customs Service has transferred five rescued pangolins to the Green Fingers Wildlife Foundation for rehabilitation, spotlighting renewed efforts to combat wildlife trafficking in Nigeria.
Wildlife protection took center stage in Bauchi over the weekend after officials confirmed the safe handover of five live pangolins intercepted during anti-smuggling operations.
Representing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, the Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘D’ Bauchi, Abdullahi Ka’ila, during the handover, described the move as part of a broader crackdown on illegal wildlife trade.
“The rescued pangolins were intercepted during anti-smuggling operations and subsequently handed over to the Green Fingers Wildlife Foundation for professional care, rehabilitation and further action,” he said.
According to Ka’ila, the transfer represents more than a routine procedure. Instead, it signals growing collaboration between enforcement agencies and conservationists determined to safeguard Nigeria’s biodiversity. By tightening surveillance and strengthening partnerships, authorities aim to curb trafficking networks that target endangered species.
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The animals were received on behalf of the foundation by a resident veterinarian James Yakubu, who praised the Customs officials for their swift intervention. He commended the Customs Service for what he called a “great job” in intercepting trafficked animals, noting that sustained enforcement combined with strong conservation alliances can significantly strengthen Nigeria’s fight against wildlife crime.
The veterinarian emphasized that the organization remains committed to rescuing vulnerable wildlife, especially species facing extinction threats. Yakubu described pangolins as the most trafficked mammals globally, highlighting the urgency of coordinated conservation action.
Once medically evaluated and stabilized, the pangolins will be released into protected forest reserves where they can live free from poaching and habitat destruction. Beyond rescue missions, the foundation also invests in public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the ecological value of wildlife and the dangers posed by illegal trade.
Notably, with growing awareness and conservation initiatives, momentum continues to build around wildlife protection in the country, offering hope that endangered species like pangolins will enjoy a safer future in their natural habitats.
