The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has arrested four persons in connection with wildlife crime in Lagos and Ogun states.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC) following days of intelligence gathering and surveillance in Ofada, Mowe and Lagos.
The enforcement team also confiscated a vehicle allegedly linked to the illegal wildlife trade.
Speaking on the development, Director-General of NESREA, Professor Innocent Barikor, described the arrests and seizure as a significant victory against wildlife crime and a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to protecting endangered species.
READ ALSO: NESREA Reaffirms Commitment to Wildlife Protection
“This is further proof of Nigeria’s zero-tolerance stance on wildlife crimes. Nigeria will not be used as a hub for wildlife trafficking. NESREA and our partners are resolute on this,” Barikor said.
Professor Barikor further stressed that the arrests send a strong warning to wildlife traffickers that the country remains committed to enforcing environmental laws and protecting endangered species from exploitation.
According to the agency, the intercepted elephant tusks were being trafficked in violation of both national and international laws protecting endangered wildlife.
Elephants are listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which prohibits commercial trade in the species and their derivatives.
“Wildlife trafficking also contravenes Nigeria’s Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental (Protection of Endangered Species in Domestic and International Trade) Regulations 2024.”
Barikor commended the Nigeria Customs Service and the Wildlife Justice Commission for their support and collaboration.
He noted that investigations are continuing to identify and apprehend other members of the trafficking network.
“Further investigations are ongoing as we work to dismantle the syndicate. All those connected with this crime will be made to face the law,” he added.
The latest operation reinforces NESREA’s ongoing efforts to combat wildlife crime and strengthen Nigeria’s role in global conservation initiatives.
