By Atoyebi Nike
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised alarm that the rising tide of internet fraud is worsening visa restrictions against law-abiding Nigerians abroad.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, represented by Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle, delivered the warning on Monday in Port Harcourt at an event organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs.
Olukoyede stressed that cybercrime, money laundering, and economic sabotage are draining Nigeria of billions annually, undermining growth and depriving citizens of jobs and infrastructure. More damaging, he said, is the reputational cost, which has subjected innocent Nigerians to harsher travel conditions.
“Fraud is not success; it is a trap,” he warned. “Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ end up losing their freedom, reputation, and future. Digital footprints never disappear.”
The EFCC boss urged youths to channel their energy into digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry, while reaffirming the commission’s commitment to sensitisation, enforcement, and collaboration with communities.
Other security agencies also raised concerns at the event. The NDLEA warned of the dangers of drug abuse, while the NSCDC cautioned against pipeline vandalism in the South-South.
The EFCC has intensified its cybercrime crackdown nationwide. In August, 38 suspected fraudsters were arrested in Lagos, while 12 others were convicted in Edo State for fraud-related offences.
In July, the United States revised its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigeria, cutting validity for some non-immigrant visas to three months and restricting them to single entry, a move linked to rising fraud concerns.
