EFCC Engages University Heads to Combat Rising Cybercrime on Campuses

• The EFCC aims to combat internet fraud among students in tertiary institutions through collaboration with educational leaders in Nigeria
• EFCC stresses the importance of integrating anti-corruption courses into the curriculum to deter cybercrime and guide youth towards better choices

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken a proactive approach to address the growing issue of internet fraud among students in tertiary institutions. The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, emphasized the need for collaboration between the EFCC and heads of tertiary institutions across Nigeria to combat the rising cases of cybercrime on campuses.

This initiative was discussed during an interactive session held at the Ilorin zonal command, involving chancellors, rectors, and provosts of tertiary institutions in Kogi State.

Mr. Olukoyede, represented by Michael Nzekwe, the Ilorin Zonal Commander of the agency, stressed the importance of implementing measures within educational institutions to deter students from engaging in criminal activities. He also encouraged parents to play a more active role in the moral upbringing of their children in schools.

Mr. Olukoyede expressed the EFCC’s commitment to eradicating corruption in the country and highlighted the significance of collective efforts from various institutions. He stated, “Higher institutions must endeavor to change the current negative narrative regarding the quality of education in Nigeria. This is because a corruption-free Nigeria is possible if every individual is proactively and sincerely involved in the fight against corruption.”

In response to these concerns, Professor Salawu Sadiku, Vice Chancellor of Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, urged the EFCC to ensure that anti-corruption courses are incorporated into the school curriculum and taught at all levels. He emphasized the importance of guiding today’s youth away from activities that could potentially jeopardize their future.

The meeting also included the participation of Dr. Salisu Usman, Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja; Dr. Umar Hassan, Provost of College of Education, Okene; Dr. Yahaya Usman, Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Idah; and Dr. Victoria Jagboro, Provost of College of Education (technical), Kabba. These leaders of educational institutions expressed their commitment to fostering an environment that discourages cybercrimes and encourages a focus on academic pursuits.