CUSTOMS: Eastern Marine Command Reiterates Commitment To Wildlife Protection, Intercepts Tusks, Others

The Eastern Marine Command of Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted substantial quantity of pangolin scales, elephant tusks and sacks of used second hand shoes.

The seizure took place in the south-south coastal waterways along Ibaka-Bakasi beach highlighting Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the Convention On International Trade In Endangered Species of Wild Fauna And Flora (CITES).

According to a statement made available to newsmen, by the Public Relations Officer, Eastern Marine Command Emmanuel Tangwa over the weekend, the operation led by officers of the unit, resulted in the confiscation of a sizeable consignment of pangolin scales and elephant tusks  amounting to 365.4 kg and six large sacks of used second hand shoes with a total  duty paid value (DPV) 680,290,400.00 , which are highly sought-after in illegal international markets.

This interception represent a significant blow to the illicit trade of these endangered species, reinforcing Nigeria’s determination to protect its wildlife and fulfil its obligation under the CITES convention.

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mike Ugbagu was quoted to be thankful to the management of the Nigeria Customs Service for deploying gunboats and logistic boats to the command.

Comptroller  Ugbagu reiterated that the Eastern Marine Command under his watch  will continue to intensify its efforts in combating wildlife trafficking and protecting Nigeria’s natural heritage.

He said the seizure of pangolin scales and elephant tusks sends a strong message to wildlife traffickers in the area that their activities will not be tolerated and they will face severe consequences for their illegal activities if caught.

“These additional resources greatly enhanced the commands ability to patrol and secure the south-south coastal waterways effectively and combing the beaches effectively.

The Eastern Marine command CAC  reiterated his commitment to provide officers with the necessary tools and support needed to safeguard the Nations natural resources /habitat.

The Customs Area Controller further called on the general public to assist the command with more useful information on the trade of illicit wildlife.

The seizure of the pangolins scales and elephant tusks,  according to the customs boss, underscores the urgent need for concerted global efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.

“These heinous activities not only endanger vulnerable species but also contribute to organize crime and illicit financial flows.

“Nigeria, as a responsible member of the international community, remains steadfast in its commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and preserving its rich biodiversity.

The Customs Area Controller commended his officers for their dedication and professionalism in executing this operation.

The successful seizure of these wildlife products, he stated, showcases the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between the enforcement agencies which the Customs Area Controller sought for with the Nigerian Navy and other agencies operating along the waterways of Ibaka-Bakasi beach in curbing the illegal wildlife trade and other forms of smuggling.

He noted that “It should be noted that Nigeria customs service is a government agency responsible for facilitating legitimate trade , enforcing customs laws and combating illicit activities, including wildlife trafficking. “

The Customs Area Controller has also reinvigorated and strengthened the patrol teams along the waterways for a 24hours patrol and combing  the beaches pointing out that this has  yielded positive outcomes which has  led to the significant seizure the command has just made.

Meanwhile, a highly productive stakeholder engagement parley organized by the Customs Area Controller was held at the command’s headquarters in Port Harcourt bringing together ship owners, agents and key stakeholders from the maritime sector.

 The objective of the parley according to the Customs Area Controller was to discuss and streamline the process of carrying out proper documentation of temporary importation papers, thereby enhancing the ease of doing business in the maritime industry in the south-south waterways.

The parley showcase a strong commitment to facilitating international trade and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirement. Ship owners, agent and representatives from various maritime enterprises actively participated in the discussions, sharing their experiences, challenges and valuable insights.

The event served as a platform for open dialogue and constructive engagement, allowing stakeholders to address common issues and propose practical solutions for improving the documentation process of temporary importation papers. The stakeholders expressed satisfaction with the Customs Area Controller for the meeting has not been held for a long time in the command.