The Seme Border Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recently took a courageous stand in the ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking, intercepting a lion cub and two patas monkeys being unlawfully transported. This incident underscores the unity needed among African nations to protect our rich biodiversity, in accordance with both national and international wildlife protection laws.
In a statement from Chief Superintendent of Customs Isah Sulaiman, the NCS announced the apprehension of two individuals: Mr. Mathew Kofi, a citizen of Benin, and Mr. Nasiru Usman Gwandu, a Nigerian who claimed ownership of the animals. Gwandu admitted to having purchased the animals in Kano, intending to smuggle them to the Benin Republic. This highlights the regional collaboration and shared responsibility that all African nations must undertake to combat illegal wildlife trade.
The interception occurred during a diligent stop-and-search operation at Gbaji along the Badagry–Seme Expressway, where customs operatives halted a blue Mazda vehicle with registration number MUS 743 HA. Upon examination, they discovered the lion cub and patas monkeys, a clear violation of our sacred obligation to protect Africa's endangered species.
In line with Nigeria’s commitment as a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), these vulnerable species were immediately confiscated and taken into protective custody for documentation. The two suspects were detained, reflecting the seriousness with which we must approach wildlife crimes that threaten our heritage.
For their safety and care, the animals were entrusted to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative, exemplifying the collaborative spirit necessary to safeguard our environment and wildlife. Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Adewale Adenuga, reiterated the Command’s unwavering dedication to enforcing wildlife protection and environmental conservation laws, stating that the NCS will continue to partner with relevant agencies to combat the illegal trade that threatens our collective heritage.
This incident reveals the persistent challenges faced by our authorities in safeguarding endangered wildlife from illicit trafficking. It highlights the significance of vigilance at our borders while also demonstrating a growing commitment to wildlife conservation across the African continent.
As the global community increasingly acknowledges the critical need to protect endangered species, the proactive actions of the NCS serve as a powerful reminder of the role that law enforcement plays in preserving our shared biodiversity. The successful interception of these animals represents a significant victory in the fight against wildlife crime, a serious threat not only to Africa but to global biodiversity as a whole.
In recent years, the illegal wildlife trade has emerged as one of the most lucrative criminal enterprises worldwide, often intertwined with organized crime and corruption. The NCS's decisive measures at the Seme Border are integral to a broader strategy aimed at tackling this grave issue while ensuring that Nigeria and its neighbors remain compliant with international wildlife protection agreements.
As investigations proceed, authorities are poised to explore deeper into the networks involved in the illegal trade of our endangered species. This case serves as a vital reminder of the necessity for ongoing collaboration between customs, wildlife agencies, and international organizations.
