The Federal Government has warned of an alarming increase in cyber slavery operations across West Africa, with vulnerable Nigerian youths being lured into criminal networks under the guise of lucrative job offers.
In a statement issued by the acting spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government expressed concern that many young Nigerians — including underage teenagers — are trafficked abroad, particularly for crypto-related operations. Instead of legitimate employment, they are forced into operating sophisticated scam centres, known as “419 cyber-scam factories,” under coercive and inhumane conditions.
“These individuals are enslaved to send thousands of fraudulent emails, messages, and calls intended to defraud victims worldwide,” Ebienfa said.
He cited a recent case where Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO) rescued and detained a group of Nigerians forced into cybercrime activities in Accra. The incident, he said, highlights the severe exploitation and underscores the urgent need to combat these multibillion-dollar criminal networks.
The Ministry strongly advised Nigerians, especially youths and parents, to exercise extreme caution when considering job offers, particularly those involving promises of easy money, overseas travel, or work with cryptocurrencies. It urged citizens to verify employment opportunities through official channels and report any suspicious offers to authorities.
The government assured that it is collaborating with regional partners, law enforcement agencies, and international organizations to dismantle these networks, rescue victims, and prosecute offenders.
“The Ministry remains committed to protecting Nigerian citizens at home and abroad and will continue to raise awareness about emerging threats to their welfare and dignity,” Ebienfa added.
