The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised fresh alarm over the growing cases of internet fraud in Nigeria, warning that the trend is worsening visa restrictions for law-abiding Nigerians seeking to travel abroad.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, represented by Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle, issued the warning on Monday during an event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs. In a statement released on Tuesday, the commission stressed that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage are damaging Nigeria’s economy and global reputation.

According to Olukoyede, these fraudulent activities cost the country billions of naira annually, stifling national growth and depriving citizens of critical infrastructure, jobs, and economic opportunities. “Beyond the economic damage, internet fraud tarnishes Nigeria’s international image and subjects innocent Nigerians to stricter visa restrictions abroad,” the statement read.

He urged young people across the South-South and the nation at large to redirect their energy toward productive ventures such as digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry.

“Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Easy come, easy go,” Olukoyede warned.
“Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ 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.”

EFCC Steps Up Crackdown on Cybercrime

The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying sensitisation campaigns, enforcement, and community collaboration to curb cybercrime. The commission has recently stepped up arrests and prosecutions across the country:

• August 2025: EFCC operatives in Lagos arrested 38 suspected internet fraudsters during a sting operation at a hotel in Ikorodu. Items recovered included vehicles, mobile phones, and substances suspected to be narcotics.
• Benin Zonal Directorate: Secured the conviction of 12 fraud suspects, including two brothers, on charges of advance fee fraud, possession of fraudulent documents, and retention of crime proceeds.

Rising Global Concern

The growing cases of cybercrime have drawn international attention. In July, the United States revised its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigeria, cutting the validity of some non-immigrant visas to three months and restricting them to single entry. The affected categories include B1/B2 visas for business and tourism, as well as F and J visas for students and exchange visitors.

Olukoyede warned that unless Nigerians, particularly the youth, reject internet fraud, more countries may impose tougher travel restrictions on innocent citizens. He called on communities, schools, and families to support the EFCC’s campaign to protect Nigeria’s image and future.