Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has appealed to Nigerian students to channel their digital skills into productive ventures, warning against the lure of internet fraud and its consequences on both personal futures and national development.
The anti-graft chief’s message was conveyed during a one-day symposium titled “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats”, held at Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, and organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale released the commission’s official statement on Monday in Abuja, noting that Olukoyede’s address was delivered on his behalf by Williams Oseghale, Head of Public Affairs at the EFCC Benin Zonal Directorate.
Olukoyede issued a stern warning against cybercrime, commonly known in Nigeria as “Yahoo Yahoo”, describing it as a destructive and short-sighted path that undermines the country’s economy and damages its global reputation.
“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,” he said.
The EFCC chair challenged students to reposition themselves as agents of economic progress and national transformation, urging them to leverage the internet for innovation, education, and entrepreneurship rather than criminality.
“We are calling on youths to shun ‘Yahoo Yahoo.’ It is not a sustainable way of life,” he said, stressing that widespread digital fraud deters foreign investment and erodes confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential.
In a passionate appeal, Olukoyede encouraged students to treat corruption as a common enemy, one they must actively resist, expose, and help eradicate.
“A new insight into the disservice which corruption represents should inspire youths like you to become change agents, active foot soldiers against corruption, whistleblowers, and intelligence gatherers,” he added.
