The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned Nigerian youths over the surge in cases of fake jobs in “international companies” and cyber-slavery across parts of West Africa.
A statement issued by the ministry spokesman, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the scam “primarily targets Nigerian citizens, especially vulnerable youths”.
He expressed concern over the increasing number of Nigerian youths being lured out of the country under false pretences and forced into cybercrime operations under inhumane conditions.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes with grave concern the alarming rise of cyber slavery across parts of West Africa, targeting Nigerian citizens, particularly vulnerable youths. Many young Nigerians, including underage teenagers, are lured out of the country under the false promise of lucrative employment opportunities abroad, particularly in crypto-related operations.
“In reality, these individuals are trafficked into sophisticated scam operations and enslaved to work in criminal “call centres” often referred to as “419 cyber-scam factories”.
“There, they are forced under coercive and inhumane conditions to send thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and calls aimed at defrauding victims worldwide,” the statement said.
The statement cited a recent incident where the Economic and Organised Crimes Office, EOCO, in Accra, Ghana, rescued and detained a group of Nigerians forced to engage in cybercrime activities under inhuman conditions.
He explained that the incident highlights the severe exploitation and abuse associated with cybercrime operations.
“It also underscores the need for enhanced efforts to combat such multibillion-dollar criminal networks and mitigate the susceptibility of victims”, the statement added.
The ministry therefore urged Nigerian youths and their families to be extremely vigilant about any job offers, especially those involving promises of overseas travel, easy income, or remote work in cryptocurrency-related fields.
“Nigerians are therefore advised to verify all employment offers through official channels and report suspicious cases to relevant authorities for necessary investigation and action to curtail the activities of the perpetrators,” the statement continued.
The statement further assured the public that the federal government is collaborating with regional and international partners to dismantle these criminal syndicates, rescue those affected, and ensure justice is served.
“The ministry remains committed to protecting Nigerian citizens at home and abroad and will continue to raise awareness about emerging threats to the welfare and dignity of our people,” he concluded.
