By Emmanuel Nduka
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strong warning about the rising threat of cyber-slavery in West Africa, which is increasingly affecting Nigerian youths.
The ministry expressed alarm over reports of young Nigerians, including teenagers, being lured abroad with promises of well-paying jobs in cryptocurrency, only to be trafficked into forced labor in illegal “call centers” running cybercrime operations.
In a statement dished out on Sunday, Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the ministry, stated: “The abuse these victims endure is inhumane, and their suffering cannot be ignored.”
According to the ministry, these operations—referred to as “419 cyber-scam factories”—coerce victims into sending fraudulent emails, text messages, and making scam calls aimed at defrauding innocent people worldwide. The victims often face extreme working conditions, with little to no hope of escape.
The ministry also highlighted a recent rescue operation in Accra, Ghana, where the Economic and Organised Crimes Office, EOCO freed a group of Nigerian citizens who had been trafficked into one of these operations. “This case serves as a grim reminder of the depths of exploitation that are occurring in these illegal operations,” said Ebienfa. “The conditions under which these victims are forced to work are not only unlawful but inhumane,” he added.
As cyber-slavery becomes an increasing concern, the ministry has called for heightened vigilance from Nigerians, especially the youth and their parents. “We cannot afford to let our youth fall victim to such heinous crimes,” Ebienfa emphasized.
The ministry is urging Nigerians to be wary of job offers that promise quick money or overseas opportunities, particularly those linked to cryptocurrency. Citizens are advised to verify all employment offers through official channels and report any suspicious cases to authorities.
The ministry assured the public that the Nigerian government is actively collaborating with regional law enforcement, international organizations, and other partners to dismantle these criminal networks and protect its citizens both at home and abroad.
