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Nigeria Strengthens Laws Against Wildlife Trafficking with Tougher Penalties
Nigeria has enacted stringent laws against wildlife trafficking, imposing fines and prison sentences to combat the illegal trade of endangered species like ivory and pangolin scales.
- On Tuesday, Nigerias Senate passed a comprehensive bill imposing fines of up to 12 million naira ($8,200) and jail terms of up to 10 years for wildlife traffickers.
- The law specifically targets the illegal trade of endangered species, including ivory and pangolin, to help dismantle organized crime networks operating in Nigeria.
- Since 2015, Nigeria has been linked to over 30 tonnes of ivory trafficking and is responsible for over half of global pangolin scale trafficking, necessitating tougher laws.
Why It Matters
This legislative move is crucial as it positions Nigeria to combat the significant illegal wildlife trade, protecting endangered species and contributing to global conservation efforts against lucrative trafficking networks.