Nigeria Moves to Enforce Harsher Penalties for Wildlife Traffickers
 
 Senate passes bill to protect endangered species and align with global conservation laws  In a landmark move, the Nigerian Senate has passed the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, 2024 , which seeks to impose tougher penalties on wildlife traffickers  and strengthen the country’s fight against the illegal trade of endangered species.  The bill, which awaits President Bola Tinubu ’s assent, is designed to replace the outdated Endangered Species Act of 1985 , providing Nigeria with a modern legal framework to combat wildlife crimes in line with international environmental standards.  A Major Step Against Wildlife Crime  According to reports from Reuters , the new legislation introduces fines of up to ₦12 million (about $8,200)  and jail terms of up to 10 years  for individuals caught trafficking endangered animals or their parts — including elephants, pangolins, and other vulnerable species native to Africa.  The bill also empowers law enforcement agencies such as the ...

 
 
 
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