Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian students to use the internet for positive ventures rather than fraud.
EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
Olukoyede gave the charge during a one-day symposium titled “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats,” organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC) at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
Speaking through the Head of Public Affairs Unit, Benin Zonal Directorate, ACE I Williams Oseghale, Olukoyede advised students to desist from internet-based criminal activities.
He warned that such practices could destabilise the nation’s economy, discourage foreign direct investment, and undermine genuine government efforts toward economic growth and development.
He urged students to develop ideas that promoted economic progress instead.
Olukoyede expressed concern over the widespread nature of internet fraud, noting that many youths engaged in it to their own detriment and that of Nigeria’s reputation.
He called on students to be disciplined and avoid the temptation of quick wealth, emphasising its serious consequences.
“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.
“We are calling on youths to shun ‘Yahoo Yahoo’ as it is not a sustainable way of life,” he said.
Olukoyede also encouraged youths to view corruption as an enemy to be defeated.
“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 said.
Prof. Sunday Samuel, Acting Vice Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, lauded the EFCC and other speakers for their insightful contributions.
He affirmed the university’s commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure a safe environment, both physically and digitally.
“A safe campus environment is the foundation upon which academic excellence, personal growth, and future success are built.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure our institutions are havens of learning, free from physical and digital threats,” he said.
Ojumoola Timileyin, NANS JCC Chairman at Ambrose Alli University, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for its impactful presentation.
“It was truly an honour to have you with us, and your impact was deeply felt by all participants,
