Crop hacker silhouette typing on computer keyboard while hacking system.
Crop hacker silhouette typing on computer keyboard while hacking system. Pexels.com

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu slammed those who stereotype Nigerians over cyber crimes, noting that the federal government supports the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to fight against economic and financial crimes.

Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, during a Public Engagement on Youth, Religion, and the Fight Against Corruption event organized by the EFCC on Wednesday, said that Nigerians have been wrongfully linked with cybercrime activities without any statistical proof.

The event also marked the Launch of the Inter-Faith Manual and Fraud Risk Assessment Project for MDAs at Yar'Adua Centre in Abuja.

"Over the decades, Nigerians have been victims of mislabelling. Such gross misrepresentation fails to reflect the true essence of our diverse and resilient nation," the president said, as per the official X handle (formerly known as Twitter).

He added, "The association of internet crimes with the entire Nigerian populace lacks statistical evidence and does not align with the sociology of everyday Nigerians."

The president further pointed out that Nigeria is home to hardworking and honest citizens who contribute significantly to various fields globally, from Artificial Intelligence to medicine.

He said Nigeria rejects blanket stereotyping of its citizens but acknowledged that all countries are interconnected in this world where cybercrimes have evolved into a global phenomenon. He noted that this poses a threat not only to Nigeria but the entire world.

The speech titled: "Youth, Religion, and Our Battle Against Corruption: A Call to Action" also applauded the "EFCC for remaining a moral compass, persistently rousing the nation's conscience" and highlighting the fact that "Nigeria is neither complicit nor complacent in confronting the menace of corruption."

Tinubu assured the anti-graft agency that his administration will support the fight against digital crime, adding that "we must recognize that the Commission's lawful efforts to bring fraudsters to book are imperative for the overall well-being of our society."

"The government is aware that our ambitious goal of eradicating internet offenses and corruption demands an atmosphere steeped in trust and integrity. We must foster open communication channels and ensure that law enforcement actions align with justice and accountability," he added.

The president also encouraged the youth to be involved with only lawful enterprises within and outside the country. To ensure that youth stay away from criminal activities, the federal government has established a Students Loan Board to address the financial needs of students.

Last month, Tinubu said that education is the remedy to the country's ongoing challenges, hinting at bandit attacks and kidnappings across Nigeria. The president is currently in France for a private visit and is expected to return in the first week of February.

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