From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian youths to shun internet fraud and embrace education, innovation, and entrepreneurship for legitimate livelihoods.
Speaking at a sensitisation event in Abuja, organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olukoyede addressed the theme: “Uniting Nigerian Youths in the Fight against Cultism, Internet Fraud, Money Laundering, Drug Abuse, Child Trafficking and Economic Sabotage.” The event was held at the Army Resource Centre.
“As we stand together, united and determined, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and our nation,” he said. “Let us join forces to reject cultism, internet fraud, money laundering, drug abuse, child trafficking, and economic sabotage.”
He encouraged youths to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability while building a society that values hard work and patriotism.
Olukoyede, represented by Assistant Commander Aisha Muhammed, Head of the EFCC’s Enlightenment and Re-orientation Unit, expressed concern over youths’ involvement in cybercrimes. “There is no virtue in deceit, no honour in impersonation, and no sustainable wealth in stealing from others,” he stated. “Nation builders cannot emerge from business breakers. Education, innovativeness, and entrepreneurial spirit are the pathways to enduring success.”
He noted the global reputational damage caused by internet fraud and urged youths to redirect their talents to sustainable ventures, emulating positive examples worldwide.
Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, represented by Chief Obinna Nwaka, described social vices like cybercrime and cultism as symptoms of deeper societal issues requiring a coordinated response from government and stakeholders.
Kabir Adamu, Managing Director of Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited, attributed rising social issues to corruption, which diverts resources meant for youth development, fuels frustration, and erodes trust in institutions.
CONYSSA President Ambassador Ade Mario called for a holistic approach to tackle insecurity and social vices, warning, “The more politics people play with issues of insecurity, the more the country and the citizens we continue to lose.”