In recent years, Nigeria has become a central point for the illegal wildlife trade, particularly pangolins, due to rising demand in Asia. These unique creatures are critically endangered worldwide, and as their populations dwindle, traffickers are turning to Africa for supplies. Notably, recent efforts by Nigerian authorities led to the arrest of a Chinese national allegedly involved in pangolin trafficking along with five others in Lagos, illustrating a major enforcement effort.
During a recent operation, authorities seized over 8,300 pounds of pangolin scales — derived from an estimated 1,900 animals — highlighting the serious impact of this activity. Michael Awe, head of the regional customs, emphasized that these efforts serve as a clear warning that they intend to fight wildlife crime aggressively.
The arrests were made possible through collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission, which aids global law enforcement with evidence on wildlife trafficking. Dr. Meganne Natali, a specialist in wildlife crime law, noted that this operation showcases the importance of long-term intelligence and international teamwork in targeting bigger fish in the illegal trafficking networks.
As Nigeria ramps up its initiatives, experts agree that this focus on wildlife enforcement is a significant step toward protecting endangered species, including the pangolin.
During a recent operation, authorities seized over 8,300 pounds of pangolin scales — derived from an estimated 1,900 animals — highlighting the serious impact of this activity. Michael Awe, head of the regional customs, emphasized that these efforts serve as a clear warning that they intend to fight wildlife crime aggressively.
The arrests were made possible through collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission, which aids global law enforcement with evidence on wildlife trafficking. Dr. Meganne Natali, a specialist in wildlife crime law, noted that this operation showcases the importance of long-term intelligence and international teamwork in targeting bigger fish in the illegal trafficking networks.
As Nigeria ramps up its initiatives, experts agree that this focus on wildlife enforcement is a significant step toward protecting endangered species, including the pangolin.
