Story perspectives

Wildlife Trade Thrives: 196 Bags of Pangolin Scales Seized

3/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The illegal wildlife trade is valued at over $20 billion annually and endangers pangolins and elephants.
A Nigerian report finds apes are trafficked as pets, driven by social media.
The Nigeria Customs Service intercepted 196 bags of pangolin scales, potentially 38,000 pangolins.
Demand for wildlife products stems from beliefs in medicinal properties because rhino horn was valued higher than gold.
The Nigeria Customs Service continues efforts to combat the trade.

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Story summary

The illegal wildlife trade is valued at over $20 billion annually and endangers pangolins and elephants.
A Nigerian report finds apes are trafficked as pets, driven by social media.
The Nigeria Customs Service intercepted 196 bags of pangolin scales, potentially 38,000 pangolins.
Demand for wildlife products stems from beliefs in medicinal properties because rhino horn was valued higher than gold.
The Nigeria Customs Service continues efforts to combat the trade.