The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has raised concern that the surge in internet fraud is worsening travel restrictions for Nigerians, leaving even innocent citizens to bear the consequences abroad.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, speaking through Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle at an event in Port Harcourt, said fraudulent practices not only ruin the lives of those involved but also damage Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage. His remarks came during a programme organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs.
According to a statement released by the commission, Olukoyede stressed that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic crimes drain Nigeria of billions of naira every year funds that could have gone into building infrastructure, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods. He added that the damage extends beyond economics, as the crimes paint Nigerians in a bad light internationally, leading to stricter visa rules for citizens seeking opportunities abroad.
The EFCC boss urged young people in the South-South and across the country to redirect their talents into meaningful sectors such as technology, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry. “Fraud is not success; it is a trap,” he cautioned. “Easy come, easy go. Those who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ lose their freedom, reputation, and future. The law is closing in, and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t destroy tomorrow with shortcuts today.”
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to scaling up awareness campaigns, strengthening enforcement, and working closely with communities to fight cybercrime.
Other security agencies at the event echoed similar concerns. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, represented by Mathew Ewah, warned of the growing danger of substance abuse among young people. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps also called for vigilance against pipeline vandalism, a recurring threat in the South-South region.
The EFCC has in recent months intensified its operations nationwide. In August, operatives from its Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 arrested 38 suspected internet fraudsters at a hotel in Ikorodu after days of surveillance, recovering vehicles, phones, and substances suspected to be narcotics. In Benin, 12 individuals among them two brothers—were convicted for advance fee fraud and related offences by Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court.
Meanwhile, international developments have added to the pressure. In July, the United States revised its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigeria, reducing the validity of certain non-immigrant visas to three months and limiting them to single entry. The changes affected categories such as B1/B2 business and tourist visas, as well as F and J visas for students and exchange visitors.
