EFCC urges students to reject Internet fraud, embrace positive digital innovation
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on students nationwide to shun internet fraud and harness their creativity and skills for positive digital engagement.
This was obtained in a statement shared on Friday by the anti-graft agency.
Speaking at a sensitisation lecture on October 28, 2025, at Renaissance University, Ugbawka, Enugu State, Olukoyede emphasised the critical role youths play in building an ethical digital future.
Addressing the topic, “Alternatives to Cybercrimes for Youths: “Embracing Positive Digital Engagement,” Olukoyede, represented by Superintendent Paul Inyang Ikpor, highlighted the importance of constructive alternatives.
He remarked, “There are numerous positive and proactive alternatives that you can adopt that can enable you to channel your skills and ambitions into constructive avenues.
Embracing the power of technology for good, not only benefits you but lays the foundation for a brighter and more ethical digital future.”
Olukoyede outlined practical paths to divert youths from cybercrime, including education in cyber-security, creative digital content creation, volunteering with non-profits, game development, and app building.
He stressed that, “As digital technologies continue to evolve, the demand for cyber security professionals is skyrocketing. You can harness your skills by pursuing education in cyber security, ethical hacking or information technology. This path not only provides a rewarding career, but also allows you to contribute positively to society by helping organizations protect sensitive information.”
On content creation, the EFCC chair noted that platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram offer opportunities for self-expression and monetization, “By investing time in these activities, you can build a personal brand, gain an audience and potentially monetize your content.”
Olukoyede also encouraged volunteering for non-profit organisation, stating, “By volunteering, you can gain real-world experience while making a meaningful impact. This engagement fosters empathy, teamwork and a sense of responsibility, reinforcing the positive side of technology.”
He thereby advised students to learn programming and game design as a productive alternative to negative online behaviour stressing, “By developing games that focus on education, teamwork or social issues, you can make a positive contribution to the gaming community and influence your peers.”
