By Emmanuel Nduka
In a concerted effort to combat illegal wildlife trafficking, the Nigerian government has announced its cooperation with Turkish authorities to ensure the safe return of an endangered baby gorilla intercepted at Istanbul Airport on December 22, 2024.
The baby gorilla, believed to have been smuggled from Nigeria, was found during a routine inspection by Turkish officials as it was en route to Bangkok, Thailand.
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a statement on Saturday underscoring the gravity of the situation: “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 in question is classified under CITES Appendix I, which lists critically endangered species that are prohibited from trade unless for conservation or scientific purposes.
In response to this illegal act, the Nigerian government has launched an investigation into the origin of the smuggling attempt.
Key agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service, are leading efforts to identify those responsible and ensure they face legal consequences. As part of this effort, the government is enhancing surveillance at Nigeria’s airports, seaports, and land borders to prevent future wildlife trafficking attempts.
“Government will enhance surveillance at the nation’s airports, seaports, and land borders to prevent future attempts and acts of illegal wildlife trafficking,” Ebienfa confirmed.
The Nigerian government has also expressed gratitude to the Turkish authorities for their swift action in intercepting the illegal shipment. “The Federal Government also commends the efforts of the Turkish authorities in intercepting this illegal trafficking,” Ebienfa added.
The Ministry emphasized the country’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered wildlife in accordance with global environmental agreements. “Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered wildlife species in line with global environmental treaties,” the spokesperson stated.
In line with this, the Ministry has directed the Nigerian Embassy in Ankara to work closely with Turkish officials to facilitate the safe return of the baby gorilla to Nigeria.
This incident underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to tackle wildlife trafficking and uphold the protection of endangered species, sending a clear message to perpetrators that illegal wildlife trade will not be tolerated.
The Nigerian government further assured that it is determined to take all necessary actions to prevent such illicit activities and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
