Lion Cub, Monkeys Headed for Benin Republic Seized by Customs

The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has announced the interception of endangered wildlife species that were being smuggled toward the Benin Republic. The animals, which include a cub and two patas monkeys, were seized at Gbaji along the Badagry–Seme Road.

In a statement issued on Monday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, said the interception took place on Sunday during a routine stop-and-search operation.

According to him, the operation reflects the command’s firm commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s biodiversity and fulfilling the country’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Sulaiman explained that on Sunday, 16 November 2025, at about 02:19 a.m., Customs operatives stopped a blue Mazda vehicle with registration number MUS 743 HA. Upon inspection, officers discovered a cub and two patas monkeys hidden inside, which is a clear breach of both national and international wildlife protection regulations.

Two suspects — Mr. Mathew Kofi, a Beninese national, and Mr. Nasiru Usman Gwandu, a Nigerian — claimed ownership of the animals. They admitted to purchasing the wildlife in Kano and planning to transport them to the Benin Republic.

Sulaiman added that, in line with global wildlife protection standards and Nigeria’s commitments under CITES, the animals were immediately confiscated and documented, while the suspects were detained for further investigation into their roles in the illegal trade.

For proper handling and welfare, the animals were formally transferred to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative.

The Customs Area Controller, Wale Adenuga, represented by Deputy Comptroller A.Y. Mohammed during the handover, reaffirmed the command’s dedication to enforcing wildlife protection laws, enhancing environmental conservation, and strengthening border security.

He emphasized that the command will continue collaborating with relevant agencies to curb the illegal trade of endangered species.

Nigeria has been a signatory to CITES since 1974 and plays a vital role in regulating cross-border movement of threatened wildlife. The country also works closely with international partners, including China, to combat illegal trafficking and protect vulnerable species.