The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised concerns that the increasing rate of internet fraud, popularly called yahoo-yahoo, is causing tougher visa restrictions for innocent Nigerians abroad.
The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede—represented by Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle—made this known at a youth security event in Port Harcourt. He explained that cybercrime, money laundering, and other fraudulent practices not only ruin the lives of those involved but also damage Nigeria’s reputation globally, leading to stricter travel conditions.
Olukoyede stressed that fraud is not true success but a dangerous trap, warning young people that “easy come, easy go.” He urged youths in the South-South and across Nigeria to embrace productive ventures such as digital innovation, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and the creative industry instead of shortcuts.
The EFCC boss assured that the commission would intensify sensitisation, enforcement, and collaboration with communities to curb the menace.
At the same event, the NDLEA cautioned against drug abuse, describing it as a major threat to Nigerian youths, while the NSCDC warned against pipeline vandalism in the region.
The EFCC has recently ramped up its fight against cybercrime. In August, 38 suspected fraudsters were arrested in Lagos, and in Edo State, 12 persons—including two brothers—were convicted for fraud-related offences.
Meanwhile, the United States has revised its visa policy for Nigeria, reducing the validity of certain non-immigrant visas such as B1/B2, F, and J categories to just three months with single entry, further tightening travel conditions.
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