The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has cautioned Nigerian youths against engaging in internet fraud, describing it as a growing threat to the nation’s image and economy.

Olukoyede delivered the warning on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the “Regional Youth Convergence on Internal Security and Digital Innovation” held at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, Delta State. He was represented by the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC 1 (ACE I), Effa I. Okim.

In his remarks, Olukoyede noted that Nigeria is endowed with significant natural and human resources but has suffered reputational damage due to the high rate of internet fraud involving young people.

“Our youths are vibrant, forward-looking, resilient, creative, intelligent, who can hold their own in any part of the world,” he said. “However, despite this resourcefulness, some among them have chosen the path of ignominy by engaging in economic and financial crimes.”

He described the involvement of youths in internet fraud as pervasive and damaging, stating, “It is a stain on us as a people and as a nation. They have embraced this crime to the detriment of their future and the image of the nation.”

Olukoyede outlined several consequences of cybercrime, including harm to the country’s international reputation, discouragement of foreign investment, declining investor confidence, and reduced innovation and productivity among young people.

He urged youths to reject criminal activity and instead focus on legitimate means of livelihood, warning that the Commission remains committed to prosecuting offenders.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee of the Delta Youth Parliament, Amukoyo Onome, said the event aimed to bring together youth leaders, policymakers, security experts, and digital innovators to discuss internal security, youth empowerment, and strategies to combat cybercrime in the Niger Delta.