The Federal Government of Nigeria is collaborating with Turkish authorities to secure the safe return of a baby gorilla that was intercepted at Istanbul Airport.
The critically endangered animal, believed to have been smuggled from Nigeria and destined for Bangkok, Thailand, was discovered during a routine inspection by Turkish officials on December 22, 2024.
This development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
According to the statement, the illegal trafficking of wildlife, particularly endangered species, is a criminal offense that violates both national and international laws, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
“The baby gorilla, classified under CITES Appendix I as critically endangered, is strictly protected, and any trade involving the species is prohibited except under exceptional circumstances for conservation or scientific purposes”, the statement reads.
In response to the incident, the Nigerian government is collaborating with relevant Turkish authorities to ensure the animal’s safe return.
“Law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service, have commenced investigations to trace the origin of the smuggling attempt and bring those responsible to justice”, the statement added.
The government has also vowed to strengthen surveillance at the nation’s airports, seaports, and land borders to prevent future wildlife trafficking attempts. It has directed the Nigerian Embassy in Ankara to maintain close communication with Turkish officials to facilitate the safe repatriation of the gorilla.
Commending Turkish authorities for their vigilance and swift action, the Federal Government reiterated its commitment to biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered wildlife species.
It also pledged to develop proactive measures to deter wildlife trafficking and ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law.
