EFCC chairman to students: There’s no shortcut to wealth, use internet for positive things

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian students to use the internet for positive ventures and not for fraud.

The EFCC chairman gave the charge at a one-day symposium tagged, “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats,” organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students, Joint Campus Council, JCC, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma in Edo State.

Olukoyede, according to a statement issued by the EFCC on Monday, June 23, 2025, advised that rather than use the internet for criminal activities that can destabilise the nation’s economy, deter foreign direct investment, and undermine genuine efforts of the government for economic growth and development, youths should evolve ideas and perspectives that can birth economic growth and development.

The EFCC boss, who spoke through the EFCC Head of Public Affairs Unit, Benin Zonal Directorate, Williams Oseghale, lamented that internet fraud has become a pervasive scourge with youths embracing different shades of it to the detriment of their future and the image of Nigeria.

Olukoyede, therefore, urged the students to be disciplined and shun the allure of quick wealth acquisition because of its grave consequences.

“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. We are calling on youths to shun yahoo yahoo as it is not a sustainable way to life,” he said.

Olukoyede also urged the students to see corruption as an enemy that must be destroyed, adding: “A new insight into the disservice which corruption represents should make youths like you to be willing to become change agents and active foot soldiers against corruption and whistle blowers or intelligence gatherers.”

Speaking, the acting Vice-Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, Prof. Sunday Samuel, commended the EFCC and other resource persons for their insightful perspectives.

The VC added that the university will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure a safe environment, physically and digitally.

“A safe campus environment is the foundation upon which academic excellence, personal growth and future successes are built. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our institutions are havens of learning, free from physical and digital threats,” he stated.

The Star