EFCC Chairman: 7 in 10 Nigerian Students Engaged in Cyber Crimes

In a recent statement, Olanipekun Olukayode, simply known as Ola Olukoyede, chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), expressed deep concern over the rising prevalence of cyber crimes among Nigerian youth. According to Olukoyede, a staggering seven out of ten students in Nigeria are now involved in various forms of cyber criminal activities.

During a meeting on December 4, 2023, the chairman voiced his apprehension when he received a delegation on a courtesy visit to the EFCC’s corporate headquarters in Jabi, Abuja. He emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, highlighting the disturbing trend that involves a significant portion of the country’s youth.

Olukoyede urged the media to play a pivotal role in educating and enlightening young people about the dire consequences of engaging in cyber crimes. He stressed the importance of nurturing these youths, who are meant to be the nation’s future leaders, rather than allowing them to succumb to criminal activities that can have severe repercussions.

The EFCC chairman expressed his distress over the societal impact of youth involvement in internet-related crimes, describing it as a menace and likening it to a cankerworm that eats away at the fabric of society. He called for a widespread media campaign to enlighten young people nationwide, emphasizing the detrimental effects of indulging in fraudulent online activities.