WARNING: Possession, Display, and Trade of Endangered Species Specimens and Products on Social Media is Prohibited
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has noted with dismay the increasing trend of possession, display, and trade in endangered species by various individuals on social media.
These activities are prohibited under extant environmental legislations particularly the Endangered Species (Control of International Trade and Traffic) Act, and the National Environmental (Protection of Endangered Species in Domestic and International Trade) Regulations.
The legislations, which enforce Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), ban poaching, trading, possessing, or displaying any specimen of wildlife or plant species listed under Appendices I, II, and III.
Species such as Elephants, Pangolins, Chimpanzees, Gorillas, and other endangered wildlife are particularly affected by this worrisome trend which undermines efforts by relevant authorities in curbing this illegal trade.
The Agency will henceforth partner very strongly with various social media platforms to ensure the suspension of the accounts of individuals or entities who engage in these activities in addition to facing the full wrath of the law.
NESREA therefore urges the general public to desist from such illegal practices as well as report any such offender to the Agency.
Social Media users are also encouraged to use their platforms to create awareness on the need to protect endangered wildlife.
Together, let us protect Nigeria’s biodiversity and ecosystem.
Nwamaka Ejiofor
Assistant Director (Press)
For: Director General/CEO
