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From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
Sequel to the interception in Turkey of a smuggled baby gorilla from Nigeria, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to biodiversity conservation and protection of endangered wildlife species in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave the assurance in a statement issued in Abuja by its acting Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
The gorilla which was reported to have been on transit to Bangkok, Thailand, was discovered by Turkish authorities during a routine inspection.
Ebienfa said the Federal Government is working closely with relevant Turkish authorities for the safe return of an endangered baby gorilla, which was intercepted at Istanbul Airport, Turkey, on 22 December 2024.
“The trafficking of wildlife and especially endangered species is a criminal and illegal act which clearly violates both national and international laws, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The baby gorilla is classified under CITES Appendix I, as critically endangered, and any trade in this species is strictly prohibited except under exceptional circumstances for conservation or scientific purposes.
“To prevent such criminal acts, relevant law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service among others, are currently conducting an investigation to determine the origin of the smuggling attempt and hold those responsible accountable.
“Consequently, the Government will enhance surveillance at the nation’s airports, seaports, and land borders to prevent future attempts and acts of illegal wildlife trafficking. The Federal Government also commends the efforts of the Turkish authorities in intercepting this illegal trafficking, and directs the Embassy of Nigeria in Ankara to continue to interface with the host authorities to ensure the safe return of the baby gorilla to Nigeria,” Ebienfa
said.
