Nigeria Anticipates Return Of Smuggled Baby Gorilla From Turkey
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
As illicit wildlife trade continues to threaten biodiversity, a recent incident has spotlighted the global efforts to combat this menace.
On December 22, 2024, Turkish authorities intercepted a five-month-old baby gorilla at Istanbul Airport during a routine inspection.
The endangered primate, en route from Nigeria to Bangkok, was discovered concealed in the cargo hold of a Turkish Airlines flight.
The young gorilla, later named Zeytin (meaning “Olive” in Turkish), was taken to Istanbul’s Polonezkoy Zoo for rehabilitation.
Veterinarians reported that Zeytin had gained weight and was becoming more active, showing promising signs of recovery from the traumatic ordeal.
In response to this incident, the Nigerian government has initiated an investigation involving agencies such as the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service to trace the origins of the smuggling attempt and hold those responsible accountable.
Measures are also being taken to enhance surveillance at airports, seaports, and land borders to prevent future wildlife trafficking.
A statement by the Spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, says the federal government is working closely with relevant Turkish authorities to ensure safe return of the baby gorilla.
It says Nigeria remains committed to biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered species, aligning with global environmental treaties.
The statement further notes that government emphasises that perpetrators of such illicit activities will face the full force of the law.
