The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian youth to uphold integrity and ethical standards while rejecting the lure of internet fraud as they prepare for future leadership roles.
Olukoyede delivered the charge yesterday during an orientation and sensitization program for new students of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Nigerian Air Force, Mando, Kaduna, marking the start of the 2025/2026 Academic Session.
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Olukoyede, represented by Chief Superintendent of the EFCC (CSE) Nana Fatima Abubakar of the Kaduna Zonal Directorate’s Public Affairs Department, gave a lecture titled “Dangers of Cybercrime.”
He stressed that there is no shortcut to wealth, reiterating that hard work, perseverance, and dedication are the true paths to success.
He cautioned that the desperation for quick riches often results in severe consequences, including the loss of freedom, damaged reputations, depression, and, in some cases, premature death.
Noting that young people are the primary perpetrators of cybercrime in the country, Olukoyede highlighted that the internet can instead be used for positive, legitimate, and profitable ventures.
He identified peer pressure, a lack of patriotism, greed, and laziness as the main drivers behind youth involvement in online fraud.
He also noted the alarming trend of internet fraud becoming interconnected with drug and substance abuse, as well as criminal fetish activities.
Warning the students about the severe consequences of cybercrime for both individuals and the nation, the EFCC boss encouraged them to join the anti-corruption fight by reporting such offenses to the Commission.
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He urged them to use the EFCC’s Eagle Eye App, which guarantees the anonymity of the reporter.
