The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has attributed part of the surge in cybercrime to a combination of “laziness” and “greed” among some Nigerian youths.
The agency made this argument during recent sensitisation events and media engagements, warning that the pursuit of quick wealth through internet fraud is damaging individual lives and the country’s reputation.
EFCC’s Position and Recommendations
The EFCC called for stronger parental involvement, improved education on digital ethics, and intensified enforcement to curb the growing trend.
According to EFCC officials, many young people see illicit online activity as an easy path to money — especially in a climate where high-profile corruption sometimes goes unpunished.
The agency stressed that enforcement must go hand in hand with prevention, which includes:
- Job creation and digital skills development
- Mentorship programmes for at-risk youth
- Community outreach that offers alternatives to illicit income
Criticism and Broader Context
Critics of the EFCC’s framing argue that blaming individual moral failings oversimplifies a complex social problem.
They point to structural factors such as:
- Chronic youth unemployment
- Educational gaps and outdated curricula
- Weak institutional trust
- Limited access to capital for entrepreneurship
Human rights groups also warn that heavy-handed enforcement without provisions for due process and rehabilitation could worsen marginalisation and social exclusion.
The Bigger Picture
In summary, the EFCC’s remarks highlight both the urgency and the complexity of combating cybercrime.
While naming “laziness” and “greed” may capture public attention, experts insist that sustainable solutions require multi-layered policy responses addressing both demand and supply — from expanding economic opportunities to strengthening cross-border law enforcement and financial oversight.