The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has called on Nigerians to demonstrate stronger commitment in combating internet fraud.
Speaking at a Security Summit in Oju Local Government Area of Benue State on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Olukoyede, represented by the Makurdi Zonal Director of the Commission, CE Anselem Ozioko, stressed that cybercrime has become a major threat to national growth and development.
Delivering a lecture titled “Social and Legal Implications of Cybercrimes in Nigeria”, he warned that the dangers posed by cybercrime require collective action from citizens, institutions, and government agencies. “The menace is real, severe, and cannot be ignored. Individuals, groups, and nations continue to suffer immense losses,” he said.
Olukoyede decried the rising involvement of Nigerian youths in internet fraud, noting that cybercrimes now account for over 2,300 cases daily worldwide, with global financial losses projected to reach £10.5 trillion by 2035.
Highlighting EFCC’s interventions, he said the Commission is enforcing relevant laws, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act 2016, the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2006, and the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2022. He also disclosed that EFCC has established a Cybercrime Response Desk to process real-time information on suspected cases for prompt enforcement.
The EFCC boss urged parents, opinion leaders, and all stakeholders to see the fight against cybercrime as “an urgent and compelling national duty.”
Other speakers at the summit included Major General M.K. Gara and Dr. Nka Obi’Bisong, Benue State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS). The event was facilitated by Hon. David Agada Ogewu, representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency.
