Customs hands over live pangolins to foundation for rehabilitation

By Ahmed Ahmed 

The Nigeria Customs Service has formally handed over five live pangolins to the Green Fingers Wildlife Foundation for rehabilitation and eventual release back into their natural habitat.

Speaking during the handover on Saturday in Bauchi, Abdullahi Shuaibu Ka’ila, the Comptroller of Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘D Bauchi, said the gesture was made on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

He noted that the action underscores the Service’s commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and protecting endangered species.

The Comptroller said the rescued pangolins were intercepted during anti-smuggling operations and subsequently transferred to the Green Fingers Wildlife Foundation for professional care and rehabilitation.

He explained that the handover marks another milestone in the fight against wildlife trafficking and reinforces the shared responsibility of government agencies and conservation groups in preserving Nigeria’s biodiversity.

Receiving the animals, Mr. James Yakubu, Resident Veterinarian at Green Fingers Wildlife Foundation, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its proactive efforts in curbing illegal wildlife trade.

Yakubu explained that the foundation is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating wild animals, particularly endangered species. 

According to him, once the animals are medically fit and stable, they are released into protected forests across Nigeria where they can thrive without threats from hunters or poachers.

Yakubu described pangolins as the most trafficked mammals in the world, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding them from extinction. 

He further noted that beyond rescue operations, the foundation also engages in public education to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and the critical role animals play in maintaining ecological balance.

Yakubu expressed appreciation to the Customs Service for what he described as a “great job” in rescuing trafficked wildlife, adding that sustained enforcement and partnerships would help protect more endangered species in the country.