Seme Customs Intercepts Smuggled Lion Cub, Patas Monkeys

BY FUNMI ALUKO

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s biodiversity and combating wildlife trafficking as its operatives halted the attempted smuggling of a lion cub and patas  monkeys.

In a decisive operation conducted in partnership with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), operatives intercepted a vehicle transporting endangered species along the Badagry–Seme Expressway.

A released signed and made available to our reporter by the Command Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent Isah Sulaiman informed that at approximately 2:19 a.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025, officers of the Command stopped a blue Mazda with registration number MUS 743 HA during a routine stop-and-search at Gbaji.

Upon inspection, the operatives discovered one lion cub and two patas monkeys concealed in the vehicle. The animals were being illegally conveyed in violation of both national laws and Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Two suspects, identified as Mr. Mathew Kofi, a Beninese national, and Mr. Nasiru Usman Gwandu, a Nigerian, admitted to purchasing the animals in Kano with the intent of smuggling them into the Benin Republic.

The suspects were immediately detained for further investigation, while the endangered species were confiscated and documented by the Command. For proper care and expert handling, the animals were formally handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative.

Sulaiman further disclosed that the handover was conducted by Deputy Comptroller AY Mohammed on behalf of Comptroller Wale Adenuga, Customs Area Controller, Seme Area Command.

Comptroller Adenuga reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to enforcing wildlife protection laws, emphasizing that the NCS will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to decisively curtail the illegal trade in endangered species.

He noted that such operations underscore Nigeria’s resolve to uphold international standards in environmental conservation and border security.

Wildlife trafficking poses a grave threat to biodiversity and ecosystems. Nigeria’s active enforcement of CITES obligations strengthens global efforts to protect endangered species.

Partnerships with organizations like Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative ensure rescued animals receive proper care and rehabilitation. This interception is not just a victory for the Nigeria Customs Service but also a strong message to traffickers that Nigeria remains vigilant in protecting its natural heritage.