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What happened
On October 28, 2025, Nigeria's Parliament passed the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill 2024, aimed at combating illegal wildlife trafficking. The new law introduces severe penalties, including fines of up to 12 million naira (approximately $8,300) and prison sentences of up to 10 years for trafficking products from endangered species like elephant ivory and pangolin scales. This legislation is seen as a significant advancement in Nigeria's conservation policies, aligning the country more closely with international agreements such as CITES. However, experts warn that without robust enforcement mechanisms, the law may not achieve its intended impact. Nigeria has been a major hub for wildlife trafficking, with a history of low conviction rates for offenders. Recent seizures of pangolin scales and ivory highlight the scale of the problem. Observers believe that if Nigeria can effectively enforce this law, it could lead to broader regional improvements in wildlife conservation efforts.
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Key insights
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Severe penalties introduced
New law imposes fines and prison sentences for wildlife trafficking.
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Concerns over enforcement
Experts doubt Nigeria's capacity to enforce the new legislation effectively.
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Regional implications
Effective enforcement in Nigeria could influence wildlife trafficking across West Africa.
Takeaways
While Nigeria's new wildlife law represents a significant step forward in conservation efforts, its success will largely depend on the government's ability to enforce it effectively. Without proper resources and coordination, the law risks being ineffective against the backdrop of a long-standing wildlife trafficking crisis.