By Tony NZEKWE
In line with it’s mandate aimed to generate more revenue, suppress smuggling activities and enhance seamless trade facilitation, the Eastern Marine Command of Nigeria Customs Service has made a significant breakthrough in combatting wildlife trafficking by intercepting a substantial quantity of pangolin scales, elephant tusks and sacks of used second hand shoes.
This information was contained in a statement issued signed by the command Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Customs Emmanuel Tangwa, and made available to GLOBAL RAYS Media.
The statement reads in part: “The seizure took place in the south-south coastal water-ways along Ibaka-Bakasi beach highlighting Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the Convention On International Trade In Endangered Species of Wild Fauna And Flora (CITES).”
Adding, “The operation led by diligent officers of the command, 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) of Six Hundred And Eighty Million, Two Hundred And Ninety Thousand, Four Hundred Naira Only (680,290,400.00) which are highly sought-after in illegal international markets.”
“This interception represented 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.”
In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller, CAC, Comptroller Mike Ugbagu, said,. “We thank the management of the Nigeria Customs Service for deploying gunboats and logistic boats to the command. These additional resources greatly enhanced the commands ability to patrol and secure the south-south coastal waterways effectively and combing the beaches effectively.”
The CAC reiterated his commitment to provide officers with the necessary tools and support needed to safeguard the Nations natural resources and habitat.
His words: “The seizure of the pangolins scales and elephant tusks 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.”
He asserted, “Nigeria, as a responsible member of the international community, remains steadfast in its commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and preserving its rich biodiversity.”
However, the Customs Area Controller commended officers and men of the command for their dedication and professionalism in executing this operation.
He reaffirmed, “The successful seizure of these wildlife products showcases the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between the enforcement agencies 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.”
Comptroller Mike Ugbagu reassured that the Eastern Marine Command under his watch will continue to intensify its efforts in combating wildlife trafficking and protection Nigeria’s natural heritage.
The CAC posited, “This 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.”
The CAC warned that Nigeria customs service is a government agency responsible for facilitating legitimate trade , enforcing customs laws and combating illicit activities, including wildlife trafficking.
In view of its fiscal policy mandate, The Customs Area Controller has reinvigorated and strengthened the patrol teams along the waterways for a 24hours patrol and combing the beaches. Which yielded this positive outcomes and leading to the significant seizure the command has just made.
“Also, a highly productive stakeholder engagement parley organized by the Customs Area Controller held at the command’s headquarters in Port harcourt created more synergies with ship owners, agents and key stakeholders from the maritime sector.
Compt. Mike Ugbagu, said, “The objective of the parley 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. This 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.”
He added, “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.”
However, the Customs Area Controller calls on the general public to assist the command with more useful information on the trade of illicit wildlife.
