The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has cautioned Nigerian students against engaging in cybercrime, urging them to channel the power of the internet into productive and legitimate ventures that contribute to national development.
Dele Oyewale the commission’s spokesperson in an official signed statement disclosed that the charge was delivered during a one-day symposium themed “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats,” organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students, Joint Campus Council (NANS JCC), Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, on Friday, June 20, 2025.
Olukoyede, represented at the event by the Head of the Public Affairs Unit, Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE I) Williams Oseghale, warned that cybercrime, popularly referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo,” is not only illegal but damaging to the country’s economy, reputation, and youth population.
He emphasized that fraudulent activities, particularly internet scams, discourage foreign investment, undermine government efforts to grow the economy, and ultimately bring ruin to those involved. He called on Nigerian youths to harness their talents and energy towards innovation and entrepreneurship.
“There is no shortcut to wealth and fame. Acts of criminality might deliver wealth in the short term but ultimately, there will be misery and gnashing of teeth. We are calling on youths to shun Yahoo Yahoo, as it is not a sustainable way of life,” Olukoyede warned.
The EFCC boss described internet fraud as a “pervasive scourge” that has sadly gained traction among young Nigerians, jeopardizing their futures and staining the country’s image. He implored the students to be disciplined and resist the temptation of fast wealth, noting that true success comes through hard work, integrity, and perseverance.
Olukoyede also urged the students to view corruption as a national enemy that must be confronted. He encouraged them to become active agents of change by reporting corruption and contributing to the fight through whistleblowing and intelligence gathering.
“A new insight into the disservice which corruption represents should make youths like you willing to become change agents and active foot soldiers against corruption,” he said.
The event also featured remarks from Professor Sunday Olowo Samuel, Acting Vice Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, who commended the EFCC and other guest speakers for their enlightening presentations. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to fostering a secure environment for students and staff, both physically and digitally.
“A safe campus environment is the foundation upon which academic excellence, personal growth, and future success are built. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our institutions are havens of learning, free from physical and digital threats,” the Acting Vice Chancellor stated.
Chairman of NANS JCC at Ambrose Alli University, Ojumoola Miracle Timileyin, expressed appreciation to the EFCC for its engagement and impactful contributions at the symposium.
“It was truly an honour to have you with us, and your impact was deeply felt by all participants,” he said.
The symposium served as part of broader efforts to educate students on security threats and equip them with the knowledge to navigate both their academic and digital spaces responsibly.
