The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has warned young Nigerian girls against sextortion, online blackmail and other forms of cybercrime, urging them to protect their integrity and avoid criminal relationships.
Olukoyede gave the warning on Monday, October 12, 2026, in Abuja during an event organised by the African Girl Guild (AGG) to mark the International Day of the Girl Child. The event was held under the theme, “Invest in Her, Empower Her and Let Her Lead.”
Represented by the Head of the EFCC’s Enlightenment and Re-orientation Unit, Assistant Commander Aisha Muhammed, the EFCC chairman said perpetrators of sextortion often exploit vulnerable moments in girls’ lives to extort money from them.
He urged girls to exercise caution in their relationships and avoid falling victim to the tactics of online predators, stressing that integrity and responsible conduct were essential to protecting themselves from exploitation.
Olukoyede also cautioned young girls against participating in cybercrime, including acting as account mules for internet fraudsters or using online platforms to blackmail others.
He said involvement in such activities not only exposed them to prosecution but also damaged Nigeria’s international reputation.
The EFCC chairman further advised girls to become responsible citizens by reporting wrongdoing, respecting the law and pursuing legitimate means of earning a living.
He encouraged them to acquire practical and digital skills such as coding, tailoring, baking and content creation, while developing healthy financial habits, including saving part of their income and distinguishing between needs and wants.
He also warned them against allowing others to use their bank accounts for fraudulent transactions, noting that account holders could face legal consequences when their accounts were used to facilitate crime.
Olukoyede said financial independence and education could empower girls to make informed decisions and resist manipulation. He added that the EFCC had established Integrity Clubs and Zero Tolerance Clubs in schools across the country to promote ethical conduct among young people.
Speaking at the event, Denen Petronella, Executive Assistant to Jindu Peter, founder of the African Girl Guide, said investing in girls required providing them with knowledge, skills, protection, mentorship and opportunities to realise their potential.
Petronella said the organisation was committed to creating support systems that would enable girls to build confidence, develop leadership abilities and actively shape their futures.
As part of this commitment, the organisation announced the launch of the AGG Camp Amani School Club, which will provide girls with opportunities to develop leadership and life skills, build confidence and explore opportunities throughout the school year.
The event attracted representatives of government ministries, departments and agencies, institutions, as well as students from secondary schools across Abuja.
