The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on Nigerian youths to shun internet fraud and embrace honesty, integrity and productive use of technology.
Olukoyede made the call on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, while addressing youths and teenagers at a conference organised by the Organisation of African Instituted Churches, Rivers State Chapter.
The programme, held at the Port Harcourt Ecumenical Centre, focused on addressing social vices and promoting positive values among young people.
Represented by an EFCC officer, Deputy Superintendent James Adayilo Hosea, the EFCC chairman spoke on the topic, “Internet Fraud Dangers, Consequences and Godly Alternative.”
Olukoyede explained that internet fraud involves using the internet, computers, mobile phones or social media to deceive others for financial gain.
He identified fake investment schemes, romance scams, identity theft, social media impersonation, online shopping fraud, cryptocurrency scams, fake giveaways and fraudulent job offers as some common forms of internet crime.
The EFCC chairman warned that anyone involved in such activities could face arrest, prosecution, conviction, imprisonment and forfeiture of illegally acquired assets.
He also identified peer pressure and the desire for quick wealth as major reasons some young Nigerians engage in cybercrime.
According to him, many youths are eager to enjoy the benefits of success without putting in the work and time required to achieve it.
“Many young people want quick results without process. They want a car before a career; a comfortable lifestyle before they labour. They want rewards before work. Unfortunately, life does not work that way. Success without process rarely lasts. Peer pressure also leads some into committing internet crimes,” he said.
Olukoyede urged young people, particularly Christian youths, to uphold integrity and use their talents for positive purposes.
He said technology should be used to create opportunities, develop useful solutions and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth rather than defraud unsuspecting victims.
“Instead of using technology to scam people, use it to create value and be responsible citizens by learning useful skills and contributing meaningfully to the growth of the economy,” he advised.
The EFCC boss further encouraged youths to be careful about the company they keep, avoid get-rich-quick schemes, acquire marketable skills and seek guidance from mentors who uphold good values.
He also advised them to set long-term goals, develop personal growth plans, make responsible use of technology and strengthen their faith through prayer and the study of God’s Word.
Olukoyede stressed that young Nigerians have the potential to build successful futures through legitimate means and should resist pressures that could lead them into criminal activities.
READ ALSO:
- Messi Back In Action For Inter Miami Following Father Jorge’s Death
- Poverty Driving Insecurity In Nigeria, PENGASSAN Warns
- Osun Poll: APC ‘Collectively Responsible’ If Fadahunsi Isn’t Expelled – Adebayo
- Tinubu Not Nigeria’s Problem, Judiciary Is – Femi Kuti
- Tinubu Approves Bill Establishing New Ports Economic Regulator, NPERA
