24 October 2024
Nigeria's anti-corruption agency is stepping up the fight against cyber-crimes by allowing residents to report such offenses around the clock..png?lu=299)
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will ensure this by establishing a 24-hour Cybercrime Rapid Response Desk, which will receive information on cyber-crimes from the public and respond without delay. The response desk has both local and international phone numbers for contacting the EFCC.
“Cyber-crime is not a crime against individuals and businesses. It is an assault on our collective integrity, economic stability and the future of our youth,” said Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu. “It is therefore crucial that we address these challenges head on and explore not only the harmful consequences of cyber-crimes but also the sustainable alternatives that can redirect our youths towards productive and positive endeavours.”
Tinubu said with young people accounting for more than 60% of Nigeria’s population, the involvement of youths in cyber-crime was a threat to the nation’s quest for economic stability. Known locally as the ‘Yahoo Boys,’ tertiary graduates struggling to secure formal jobs are reportedly the main perpetrators of these crimes.
The Nigeria Communications Commission reports that the West African country loses an estimated $500 million per annum to cyber criminals.
