The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has charged Nigerian students to put the internet to positive use instead of fraudulent activities.
The EFCC Chairman gave the charge at a one-day symposium organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Council at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, according to a statement issued in Abuja on Monday by the Commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale.
The symposium was titled “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats”.
Olukoyede advised students to desist from internet-based criminal activities as such practices could destabilise the nation’s economy, discourage foreign direct investment, and undermine genuine government efforts toward economic growth and development.
The EFCC Chairman, who was represented by the Head of Public Affairs Unit, Benin Zonal Directorate, ACE I Williams Oseghale, expressed concern over the widespread nature of internet fraud, noting that many youths engaged in it to their own detriment and that of Nigeria’s reputation.
He urged students to be disciplined, avoid the temptation of quick wealth, and instead develop ideas that promote economic progress.
“There is no shortcut to wealth and fame. Acts of criminality might deliver wealth in the short term but ultimately there will be misery and gnashing of teeth,” Olukoyede said.
“We are calling on youths to shun ‘Yahoo Yahoo’ as it is not a sustainable way of life,” he said.
He also encouraged youths to view corruption as an enemy to be defeated, adding, “A new insight into the disservice which corruption represents should inspire youths like you to become change agents, active foot soldiers against corruption, whistleblowers, and intelligence gatherers.”
The Acting Vice Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, Prof. Sunday Samuel, lauded the EFCC and other speakers for their insightful contributions.
He affirmed the university’s commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure a safe environment, both physically and digitally.
“A safe campus environment is the foundation upon which academic excellence, personal growth, and future success are built,” Prof. Samuel said.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure our institutions are havens of learning, free from physical and digital threats,” he said.
NANS JCC Chairman at Ambrose Alli University, Ojumoola Timileyin, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for its impactful presentation.
“It was truly an honour to have you with us, and your impact was deeply felt by all participants,” he said.
NAN
