Stop the scam, start building, Olukoyode urges young Nigerians

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian youths to shun internet fraud and channel their creative energies towards nation-building.

He gave the charge on Wednesday, 8 October 2025, at the inaugural Kids and Teens STEAM Innovate Buildathon bootcamp. The event, themed “Future Innovator: Young Minds, Big Ideas, Creating Tomorrow Today,” was held for young people aged between seven and 18.

Delivering his keynote address through the Acting Director of the EFCC’s Kaduna Zonal Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE I), Bawa Usman Kaltungo, Olukoyede encouraged youths to embrace positive, productive ventures and steer clear of economic and financial crimes — particularly internet fraud.

While applauding the innovative spirit, talents, and skills of Nigerian youths, he urged them to apply their gifts in ways that support government efforts and contribute to national development, rather than engaging in activities that could jeopardise their future and the country’s progress.

“A lot of negativity is going on among the youth, but I urge you not to go with the tide. Desist from joining the bandwagon of internet fraud, as there will be regrets in future. Your importance in our society cannot be taken lightly. Galvanise your thoughts in such a way that you can stand nationally or internationally when the opportunity presents itself. Your era is very different from ours,” he said.