Abuja – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of cyber-slavery affecting Nigerian citizens, particularly vulnerable young people across West Africa.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry revealed that a growing number of Nigerians, including minors, are being deceived with promises of lucrative employment opportunities abroad, particularly in cryptocurrency-related fields. Rather than securing legitimate jobs, these individuals are trafficked into organized criminal networks and forced to work under harsh conditions in so-called “419 cyber-scam factories.”
Victims, it said, are compelled to dispatch thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and phone calls designed to defraud unsuspecting people across the world.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, the Ministry cited a recent operation by Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO) in Accra, where a group of trafficked Nigerians were rescued from inhumane conditions while being exploited for cybercrime activities.
The incident, according to the Ministry, exposes the depth of exploitation associated with these criminal enterprises and the urgent need for stronger collective action to dismantle such syndicates.
Nigerians, especially young people and parents, have been urged to remain vigilant and thoroughly scrutinize any job offers, particularly those involving overseas opportunities, promises of quick financial gain, or remote work centered on cryptocurrency. Citizens are encouraged to verify employment opportunities through official channels and to promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
The Ministry assured that the Federal Government, in collaboration with regional allies, security agencies, and international partners, is intensifying efforts to dismantle these criminal networks, rescue victims, and prosecute offenders.
It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of Nigerians both at home and abroad and pledged to continue public sensitization on emerging threats facing the citizenry.
