EFCC Says ‘Yahoo Boys’ Responsible for Growing Visa Restrictions

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned that the increasing rate of internet fraud is contributing to stricter visa conditions for Nigerians abroad. The agency said law-abiding citizens are being affected by the global fallout of cybercrime committed by others.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, represented by Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle at a youth event in Port Harcourt, said crimes like online fraud and money laundering continue to damage Nigeria’s reputation and economy. He said billions of naira are lost annually, undermining development and public trust.

Young Nigerians were urged to focus on sectors such as agriculture, technology, and entrepreneurship rather than pursuing fraudulent activities. The commission said digital crimes leave long-lasting footprints that are difficult to erase.

The EFCC has carried out several nationwide operations targeting cybercrime suspects. In August, 38 individuals were arrested in Lagos, and 12 others were convicted in Edo State. The agency also pointed to recent changes in U.S. visa rules as one consequence of Nigeria’s rising fraud profile.