The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Olanipekun Olukoyede, has voiced concern over the widespread involvement of young Nigerians in cybercrime, describing the trend as deeply troubling.
Speaking at the 8th Biennial Conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria, held in Kano, Olukoyede said his findings suggest that roughly six out of every 10 university students are engaged in internet fraud and related offences.
He described the situation as alarming, noting that data gathered from investigations and field operations over the past year indicates significant participation of undergraduates in cybercrime activities.
According to him, many suspects arrested in recent operations were students, with some allegedly going as far as compromising academic integrity by placing lecturers on their payroll.
Olukoyede said the issue points to deeper systemic problems, including weak institutional oversight and vulnerabilities within university administration.
He also referenced a major operation in Lagos where 792 individuals linked to an international cybercrime network were arrested, adding that a notable number of them were students. The operation, powered by artificial intelligence tools, highlighted the scale and sophistication of such criminal networks.
The EFCC chairman further warned about the rise of “Yahoo Plus,” a trend where internet fraud is combined with ritual practices.
He urged university authorities and governing councils to take immediate action by strengthening internal controls and working closely with law enforcement agencies.
Olukoyede also called for increased collaboration between universities, regulatory bodies, and anti-corruption agencies to effectively address the growing threat.
