The Acting Zonal Director of the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE I, Ahmed Ghali, has raised concerns over the growing involvement of Nigerian youths in cybercrime.
Ghali made this known on Thursday during a seminar themed “The Role of the Boy Child in Community Development and Safety,”;; organized by the Police Community Relations Committee, PCRC, Bode Thomas Division, Area C Command Headquarters, Surulere, Lagos.
Speaking through ACE II Babatunde Sulaiman, Head of Public Affairs at the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Ghali lamented that many young people are sacrificing their futures in pursuit of unrealistic ambitions.
He described the trend as worrisome, noting that a significant number of youths have become morally adrift, resorting to internet fraud as a means to fast-track their quest for wealth.
“As beautiful as your dreams may be, they could be doomed from the start if you don’t embrace the culture of discipline and integrity. The reason is clear: many youths are increasingly drifting towards antisocial behaviours that can disrupt public peace, harm individuals, or degrade the environment.
“In addition to commonly known antisocial behaviours, internet fraud has become a prevalent pastime among many youths.”;;
Ghali noted that while the internet holds immense potential for legitimate economic empowerment, many youths misuse it in ways that undermine their personal and professional development.
“If you use it wisely, it can elevate you financially and enable you to contribute to your community’s development. However, if you choose to use the internet for criminal purposes, you won’t just harm your unsuspecting victims, but you’ll also jeopardize your own personal goals.”;;
He urged young Nigerians to channel their creativity and drive into ethical and legal ventures online, stressing the importance of aligning personal ambition with values that support long-term success and societal progress.
