The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Lagos on Monday said it had arrested four suspected wildlife traffickers and confiscated 22 pieces of elephant tusks weighing 130.84 kilogrammes in a coordinated operation across Ogun and Lagos states.
The operation, which was carried out in partnership with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC), is being hailed as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking and the protection of endangered species.
Customs said the seizure was the result of extensive intelligence gathering, surveillance and investigations into an organised wildlife trafficking syndicate operating within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
The elephant tusks were intercepted at about 4:30 p.m on Saturday, June 13, 2026, in Ofada, in the Mowe area of Ogun State while other members of the syndicate were arrested simultaneously in different locations in Lagos State.
The Customs Service revealed that the seized tusks have an estimated black market value of N126.39 million in Asia where illicit trade in ivory continues to be a lucrative criminal enterprise despite international restrictions.
However, Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Gambo Aliyu, said the seizure was a clear demonstration of the agency’s commitment to enforcing national and international laws against the illegal trade in endangered wildlife species.
Nigeria is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) which prohibits the unlawful trade in protected species, Aliyu said. He also referenced Section 55(1)(i) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which criminalises the illegal commerce of endangered wildlife.
“This seizure highlights our resolute dedication to tackling wildlife crime and safeguarding biodiversity. “It also underscores the importance of cooperation among the relevant agencies and stakeholders to dismantle transnational criminal networks involved in wildlife trafficking,” he said.
The comptroller praised NESREA and the Wildlife Justice Commission for their support and sharing of intelligence, which he described as vital to the success of the operation.
He warned that criminal elements using Nigeria as a transit route for illegal wildlife products would continue to feel the full weight of the law.
He further appealed to members of the public to support ongoing enforcement efforts by providing credible information on suspicious shipments and activities related to wildlife trafficking.
“We appeal to citizens to report any persons involved in wildlife trafficking syndicates. The Nigeria Customs Service would not hesitate to take decisive enforcement action against individuals or groups found violating the law,” he added.
Customs has the four suspects and elephant tusks in custody for further investigation and prosecution.
