By Peter Omopo | September 17, 2025
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned that the surge in internet fraud is worsening visa restrictions for innocent Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said cybercrime not only destroys the future of perpetrators but also tarnishes Nigeria’s global reputation, leading to tougher travel conditions for law-abiding citizens.
Olukoyede, represented by Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle, made the remarks on Monday at an event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs. The statement was made public on Tuesday through a release by the Commission.
‘Fraud is not success’
According to him, cybercrime, money laundering, and other forms of economic sabotage cost Nigeria billions of naira annually, undermining development and depriving citizens of jobs, infrastructure, and opportunities.
“Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Easy come, easy go. Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ always end up losing their freedom, reputation, and future. The law is catching up with them and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t destroy your tomorrow with shortcuts today,” he said.
Olukoyede urged Nigerian youths to redirect their energy toward productive ventures such as digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry. He also reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to intensifying sensitisation campaigns, enforcement, and collaboration with communities to combat cybercrime.
Related security concerns
At the same event, representatives from other agencies also raised concerns. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) warned that drug abuse remained one of the most dangerous threats confronting young Nigerians, while the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) cautioned against pipeline vandalism in the South-South region.
Recent crackdowns
The EFCC has recently stepped up its operations against internet fraud. In August, operatives of its Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 arrested 38 suspected fraudsters at Mambillah Hotel, Ikorodu, Lagos. Items recovered included vehicles, phones, and substances suspected to be narcotics.
Similarly, the Benin Zonal Directorate secured the conviction of 12 persons, including two brothers, on charges ranging from advance fee fraud to possession of fraudulent documents. They were sentenced by Justice M. Itsueli of the Edo State High Court.
In July, the United States tightened its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerians, slashing the validity of some non-immigrant visas—such as B1/B2 business and tourism visas, as well as F and J student and exchange visas—to three months with single-entry only.
The EFCC chairman said the trend is a direct consequence of the global perception shaped by the activities of cybercriminals, stressing that the fight against fraud is essential not just for Nigeria’s economy but also for restoring the nation’s credibility abroad.
