EFCC Boss Warns Nigerian Youths Against Fast Money Trap

(Ola Olukoyede. Photo by Channels Tv)

The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has urged Nigerian youths to prioritise integrity for a secure future, criticising their pursuit of comfortable lifestyles without corresponding work ethic.

The EFCC leader delivered this message in Port Harcourt while addressing young people at a conference organised by a religious organisation's Rivers chapter.

The chairman defined internet fraud as the misuse of digital platforms, computers, mobile devices or social networks to deceive individuals for financial gain.

He exposed the inherent dangers and consequences such crimes present to perpetrators' futures, while emphasising that legitimate alternatives exist for young persons seeking economic advancement.

Internet-based crimes encompass counterfeit investment schemes, romantic deception scams, identity theft, social media account impersonation, fraudulent online shopping transactions, cryptocurrency schemes, fake promotional offers and fabricated employment opportunities.

The consequences, he stressed, include arrest, prosecution, conviction, incarceration and potential asset seizure.

He warned that "all you have laboured for will be taken away."

The EFCC boss identified peer pressure and the desire for rapid wealth accumulation as the strongest motivations driving youth involvement in internet fraud.

He observed that numerous young people pursue immediate results without process, desiring material possessions before establishing careers and seeking rewards without corresponding labour.

Success achieved without legitimate process rarely endures, he noted, and peer influence frequently drives individuals toward committing internet crimes.

He appealed to youth, particularly those with religious faith, to distinguish themselves through demonstrated integrity in all endeavours.

He stressed that each young person possesses unique abilities, talents and purpose, and that individuals were not created to operate through deception or dishonesty but rather to serve as moral exemplars.

Rather than deploying technology for defraud purposes, he advised using it to generate value and fulfil civic responsibility through skill development and meaningful economic contribution.

The chairman urged youths to exercise discernment in friendship selection, avoid schemes promising rapid wealth, cultivate marketable competencies and identify mentors demonstrating integrity.