EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, made the statement through Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle at an event organized by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

According to a statement released by the commission, Olukoyede emphasized that cybercrime and other fraudulent activities not only endanger the future of those directly involved but also damage Nigeria’s global reputation.

“Beyond the economic damage, these crimes erode Nigeria’s international image and subject innocent Nigerians to stricter visa restrictions abroad,” the EFCC said.

Read Also: EFCC Orders Arrest of Dismissed Officer Featured on Lege Miami’s Show

The agency noted that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage cost Nigeria billions of naira annually undermining infrastructure development, employment opportunities, and national growth.

Olukoyede urged Nigerian youths, particularly in the South-South region, to redirect their energy into meaningful pursuits such as digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry.

“Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Easy come, easy go. Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ end up losing their freedom, reputation, and future. The law is catching up with them, and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t destroy your tomorrow with shortcuts today,” he warned.

The EFCC also reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying public sensitization, law enforcement, and community collaboration to tackle financial crimes across the country.

Source: Punch