The Federal Government (FG) has sounded the alarm over an escalating wave of cyber slavery affecting parts of West Africa.
This warning follows revelations by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that nearly $65 million was lost over the past two years to financially motivated sextortion schemes, reportedly involving Nigerian nationals.
In a statement released by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government warned that these scams primarily target Nigerian citizens, with vulnerable young people being the main victims.
The statement detailed how numerous Nigerian youths, including minors, are being enticed to leave the country under the guise of high-paying job opportunities abroad, particularly in the cryptocurrency sector.
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The ministry said upon arrival, victims are trafficked into organised scam operations and forced to work in so-called ‘call centres,’ or ‘419 cyber-scam factories’.
“There, they are forced under coercive and inhumane conditions to send thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and calls aimed at defrauding victims worldwide,” it added.
The ministry expressed concern over a recent case in Accra, Ghana, where Nigeria’s Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO) rescued several Nigerian nationals who had been subjected to degrading cybercrime activities.
“This incident highlights the severe exploitation and abuse associated with cybercrime operations,” the ministry stated.
Describing the situation as deeply troubling, the government emphasised the urgent need for reinforced action against the multibillion-dollar criminal networks orchestrating these schemes, as well as the protection of vulnerable Nigerians from falling prey to them.
To this end, the ministry assured the public that the FG is intensifying collaboration with regional partners, international organisations, and security agencies to disrupt these networks, rescue victims, and ensure that the perpetrators face justice.
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Reaffirming its commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians both at home and abroad, the ministry pledged to continue educating the public on emerging dangers to their rights and dignity.
It urged Nigerians — especially youths and their parents — to exercise extreme caution when offered employment opportunities, particularly those promising quick wealth, foreign travel, or work related to cryptocurrencies.
“Nigerians are therefore advised to verify all employment offers through official channels and report suspicious cases to relevant authorities for necessary investigation and action to curtail the activities of the perpetrators,” said the ministry.
