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The federal government raised concerns on Sunday regarding the increasing threat of cyber-slavery in West Africa.
The minister of foreign affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, shared this information in a statement made by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
Tuggar voiced apprehension over the troubling surge in cyber-slavery cases in various parts of West Africa, which he noted mainly affects Nigerian citizens, particularly vulnerable youth.
He reported that numerous young Nigerians, including underage teens, are being enticed out of the country with false guarantees of well-paying job opportunities abroad, especially in cryptocurrency-related fields.
“In truth, these individuals are trafficked into elaborate scam operations and made to work in criminal call centres, commonly known as ‘419 cyber-scam factories,’” Tuggar explained.
“There, under harsh and inhumane conditions, they are forced to send out thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and calls designed to swindle victims worldwide.”
He referred to a recent case where the Economic and Organised Crime Office in Accra, Ghana, rescued a group of Nigerians who were being coerced into cybercrime under appalling conditions.
“This incident underscores the severe exploitation and mistreatment linked with cybercrime operations. It also highlighted the urgent need to intensify efforts to dismantle these multimillion-dollar criminal syndicates and lessen the vulnerability of potential victims,” he commented.
Tuggar advised Nigerians, especially the youth and their parents, to exercise extreme caution when they receive job offers, particularly those that promise quick money, overseas travel, or remote work involving cryptocurrencies.
He urged Nigerians to authenticate all job offers through official channels and to report any suspicious cases to the appropriate authorities for swift investigation and action.
“To prevent further incidents, the government is collaborating closely with regional partners, law enforcement agencies, and international organizations to combat this grave crime, rescue victims, and bring offenders to justice,” he added.
Tuggar reiterated the ministry’s dedication to protecting Nigerian citizens both domestically and internationally while raising awareness about emerging dangers to their welfare and dignity.
