Customs, NESREA seize N126.3m elephant tusks

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the Wildlife Justice Commission, has intercepted a significant haul of 22 elephant tusks, weighing 130.84 kilograms. The seizure, valued at N126.3 million on the street, was made over the weekend in Ofada, Mowe, Ogun State, and other areas within Lagos.

Four male suspects were arrested in connection with the operation, which was the result of coordinated intelligence gathering, surveillance, and investigation into an organized wildlife trafficking syndicate. Hussaini Abdullahi, Public Relations Officer of the NCS Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, described the interception as a breakthrough in combating wildlife crime and protecting endangered species.

“

The seized elephant tusks in Asia have a black market value equivalent to N126.3m.

The seized tusks and the suspects are currently in custody pending further investigation and prosecution. The Customs Area Controller for FOU Zone A, Gambo Aliyu, emphasized the seizure as a clear demonstration of the unit's dedication to enforcing national and international wildlife protection laws, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.

Aliyu stressed that Section 55 (1) para 1 (i) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 prohibits illegal trade in endangered species. He commended the collaborative efforts of NESREA and WJC, urging stakeholders to maintain the momentum against criminal elements exploiting Nigeria as a transit route. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife trafficking.

“

This seizure also underscores ongoing enforcement efforts to stop illegal wildlife trade and protect biodiversity.