In its efforts to disrupt fraud networks and also mitigate the impact of internet fraud across the country, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a 24-hour Cybercrime Rapid Response Desk.
The launch which was held at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, was officiated by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The centre is designed to facilitate rapid information exchange on internet fraud in order to enable a rapid response by the Commission both from within Nigeria and worldwide.
The launch was a key highlight of the National Cybercrime Summit, themed: Alternatives to Cybercrime: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development,” which was organized by the EFCC in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, the European Union (EU), and International IDEA.
In her keynote address, Mrs Tinubu said, “Cybercrime is not just a crime against individuals and businesses; it is an assault on our collective integrity, economic stability, and the future of our youth.
“It is therefore crucial that we tackle these challenges head-on and not only address the harmful effects of cybercrimes but also explore sustainable alternatives that can steer our youths towards productive and positive endeavors. With young people making up over 60 per cent of our population, their involvement in cybercrime is a serious threat to the nation’s economic stability.”
The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede noted that “the menace of cybercrimes, like most economic and financial crimes, is a burning challenge that we cannot deny, ignore or wish away.”
He further said, “The enormity of challenges posed to us as individuals and nation by cybercrimes are grievous. As individuals, youths’ involvement in these crimes is distorting and corrupting acceptable family values. The tendency towards quick riches no longer positions our young people for enterprise, resourceful intellectual aspirations and technological innovations.”