The Federal Government on Sunday issued a strong warning to Nigerians over the growing menace of cyber-slavery—a rising form of human trafficking increasingly targeting young people across the region.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, in a statement signed by ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, expressed deep concern over the alarming number of Nigerian youths being lured abroad under false pretenses and forced into cybercrime operations under inhumane conditions.
According to the ministry, many of the victims—including underage teenagers—are enticed with offers of high-paying jobs, particularly in the crypto industry.
Upon arrival abroad, they are trafficked into what are now described as “sophisticated scam operations” and held against their will in what have become known as “419 cyber-scam factories.”
“There, they are forced under coercive and inhumane conditions to send thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and calls aimed at defrauding victims worldwide,” the statement noted.
The ministry cited a recent case in Accra, Ghana, where a group of Nigerians was rescued by the Economic and Organised Crime Office.
The individuals were reportedly held captive and compelled to engage in cybercriminal activities under abusive conditions.
“This incident highlights the severe exploitation and abuse associated with cybercrime operations,” the statement said. “It also underscores the urgent need for enhanced efforts to combat these multibillion-dollar criminal networks and reduce the vulnerability of potential victims.”
In light of the escalating threat, the government urged Nigerian youths and their families to exercise extreme caution regarding any job offers, especially those involving promises of overseas travel, easy income, or remote work in cryptocurrency-related fields.
“Nigerians are, therefore, advised to verify all employment offers through official channels and report suspicious cases to relevant authorities for investigation and appropriate action to curtail the activities of the perpetrators,” the statement urged.
The ministry assured the public that the Federal Government is actively collaborating with regional and international partners to dismantle these criminal syndicates, rescue affected victims, and ensure justice is served.
“The Ministry remains committed to protecting Nigerian citizens at home and abroad and will continue to raise awareness about emerging threats to the welfare and dignity of our people,” Ebienfa stated.
