The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian youths to resist the lure of online fraud and instead pursue a life built on honesty and hard work.
Olukoyede made the call on Wednesday while delivering the 17th convocation lecture of Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State.
The lecture was titled “Beyond Degrees: Cultivating Purpose, Resilience, and Service in a Complex World.”
According to him, while many young Nigerians are productively engaged in the digital economy, earning legitimate income through technology and innovation, others are unfortunately exploiting the same space for fraudulent activities.
He cited examples of innovative entrepreneurs such as Gbenga Agboola and Oyin Aboyeji, founders of the Flutterwave payment platform, as models of integrity in the tech industry.
However, he noted that some individuals, including Awerusuo Otorudo and Chukwuebuka Ehirim, had allegedly defrauded the public by enticing investors with unrealistic promises of massive returns through schemes like CBEX.
“The difference between those who build lasting success and those who end up in disgrace lies in their approach and mindset,” Olukoyede said. “Some follow due process and achieve success legitimately, while others cut corners and embrace deceit in pursuit of quick wealth.”
He cautioned the graduating students against yielding to pressure from peers or society to live beyond their means, stressing that ill-gotten wealth often ends in regret.
“To seek quick riches is to invite ruin. Wealth gained dishonestly never endures,” he warned.
The EFCC boss further revealed that the commission is setting up a cybercrime research center to tackle the misuse of digital skills among Nigerian youths.
He also advised the students to make integrity their guiding principle in all endeavours.
“Integrity is built on truth and honesty,” he said. “No matter how talented or intelligent you are, without these values, true success will remain elusive.”
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Prof. Shadrach Akindele, commended Olukoyede for his insightful address, noting that his presence underscored the importance of education that promotes national growth and ethical leadership.