By Abdullahi Lukman
Conservationists have called for the urgent passage of Nigeria’s proposed Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, describing it as a critical step in tackling illegal wildlife trafficking and safeguarding the country’s rich biodiversity.
The bill, currently before the National Assembly, aims to replace the outdated Endangered Species Act of 1985 with a modern legal framework that introduces tougher penalties, strengthens enforcement, and aligns Nigeria’s policies with global standards, including CITES and the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime.
Nigeria, one of Africa’s most biodiverse nations, has also become a key transit hub for the illegal trade in endangered species—particularly pangolins, the world’s most trafficked mammal.
In recent years, authorities have seized over 20 tonnes of pangolin scales, highlighting the scale of the crisis.
The Pangolin Conservation Guild Nigeria (PCGN), led by Professor Olajumoke Morenikeji, has voiced strong support for the bill and stressed the need for swift legislative action.
PCGN warned that without strong legal backing, traffickers continue to evade justice, with weak penalties and rare convictions undermining law enforcement efforts.
Key features of the bill include asset forfeiture provisions, corporate liability, and streamlined prosecution processes—all designed to dismantle the criminal networks behind wildlife trafficking.
The group praised the Federal Ministry of Environment for drafting the legislation and Hon. Terseer Ugbor for sponsoring the bill in the House of Representatives.
PCGN also commended the joint House Committees on Environment and Treaties for facilitating public input from civil society, NGOs, enforcement agencies, and local communities.