As the appeal for pangolins surges in Asia — where local numbers plummet — traffickers are increasingly looking toward Africa as the remaining haven for these reptiles. Consequently, Nigeria has become a focal point for the illicit trade of pangolins and other wildlife. However, recent actions by law enforcement reflect a promising shift in the country’s commitment to tackle this pressing issue.
Nigeria's Fight Against Pangolin Trafficking: A Sign of Hope in Sustainable Wildlife Conservation
Nigeria's Fight Against Pangolin Trafficking: A Sign of Hope in Sustainable Wildlife Conservation
Despite being a trafficking hub, Nigeria intensifies its battle against wildlife crime, particularly pangolin trafficking, as international pressures mount.
In a notable operation this month, Nigerian authorities arrested a Chinese individual believed to be a prominent pangolin trafficker in Lagos. This investigation led to a broader crackdown, resulting in five additional arrests and the confiscation of 8,300 pounds of pangolin scales from approximately 1,900 animals. These scales hold a high demand in Asian markets for their alleged medicinal properties.
Michael Awe, the regional customs chief, emphasized that these efforts signal the Nigeria Customs Service's unwavering determination to combat wildlife crime effectively. Experts agree that the recent arrests represent a strategic approach to wildlife trafficking, focusing not only on small-time offenders but also on dismantling established supply networks.
Collaborating with the Wildlife Justice Commission, a foundation based in the Netherlands, Nigeria's Customs Service leveraged intelligence that has proven instrumental in achieving these results. Notably, the detained Chinese national is linked to an earlier seizure of 16,000 pounds of pangolin scales, displaying the potential for long-term intelligence gathering in fighting wildlife crimes.
Dr. Meganne Natali, a wildlife crime legal consultant, applauded the operation, citing it as a testament to international cooperation and the importance of sustained efforts in the fight against wildlife trafficking. With such developments, Nigeria's role in global wildlife protection efforts may see a substantial evolution in the near future.
Michael Awe, the regional customs chief, emphasized that these efforts signal the Nigeria Customs Service's unwavering determination to combat wildlife crime effectively. Experts agree that the recent arrests represent a strategic approach to wildlife trafficking, focusing not only on small-time offenders but also on dismantling established supply networks.
Collaborating with the Wildlife Justice Commission, a foundation based in the Netherlands, Nigeria's Customs Service leveraged intelligence that has proven instrumental in achieving these results. Notably, the detained Chinese national is linked to an earlier seizure of 16,000 pounds of pangolin scales, displaying the potential for long-term intelligence gathering in fighting wildlife crimes.
Dr. Meganne Natali, a wildlife crime legal consultant, applauded the operation, citing it as a testament to international cooperation and the importance of sustained efforts in the fight against wildlife trafficking. With such developments, Nigeria's role in global wildlife protection efforts may see a substantial evolution in the near future.
