Cyber Security Experts Commend EFCC, Advocate Use Of Technology To Fight Crimes

In a digital age where innovation drives progress, from online scams to data breaches, cybercrime in Nigeria has grown more sophisticated, but so has the response.

Across the nation, new technologies are emerging to trace, track and tackle digital criminals. Nigeria is one of Africa’s fastest-growing tech hubs and now faces the urgent challenge of staying ahead of cybercrimes.

Speaking to THE WHISTLER, Mr Remi Afon, the UK-based immediate past president of the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN), said Nigeria needs a balanced approach that combines stronger
law enforcement, better education, and digital opportunities for young people.

“Our security agencies, especially the EFCC and the Nigeria Police cybercrime units, have made progress, and Nigeria already collaborates closely with Interpol and international law enforcement to track global cyber-fraud networks. But enforcement alone will not solve the problem.”

He stated that initiatives such as GoLegit Africa, which focus on rehabilitating and re-skilling individuals involved in cybercrime, are helping redirect technical talent toward ethical and productive careers. We must make it clear that cyber skills can build wealth legally in cybersecurity, software development, and entrepreneurship, not through fraud.

Remi emphasised that technology is one of the most powerful tools we have to fight corruption because it reduces human interference and increases transparency. For example, digitising payroll systems and introducing the Biometric Verification Number (BVN) have already helped government agencies remove thousands of ghost workers and save billions of naira.

Similarly, electronic procurement systems and blockchain-based record-keeping can create a tamper-proof audit trail for contracts and payments.

“Citizen engagement tools like the FlagIt mobile app allow Nigerians to anonymously report bribery or extortion. When combined with open-data platforms where the public can track government spending, technology becomes a natural check on corruption.”

Technology Will Stop Kidnappings

He noted that technology can dramatically improve how Nigeria prevents, tracks, and responds to kidnappings. Using GPS trackers in vehicles, drones, satellite imagery, and data analytics, security forces can monitor high-risk routes, identify patterns, and locate victims more quickly. Mobile network data and call-pattern analysis can also help trace ransom calls and disrupt criminal networks.

“Technology alone won’t solve the problem, as it must be backed by coordination, training, and trust between communities and law-enforcement agencies. But when used correctly, technology can save lives and deter kidnappers.”

Remi stated that the bigger picture is that technology gives Nigeria a real chance to rebuild trust, create jobs, and improve national security. ” We must continue to digitise government systems, invest in cyber-intelligence, and promote ethical use of digital skills among young people.

“Programmes like GoLegit Africa show that transformation is possible when we combine enforcement with education and social rehabilitation.”

“Nigeria’s tech-savvy youth are not the problem; they are the solution. With the right policies, partnerships, and awareness, we can turn the same creativity used in online fraud into a force for innovation and economic growth.”

Also speaking to THE WHISTLER, Mr Martins Ayotunde, a HumAngle Technology and Civic Impact Fellow, said that there are a lot of factors that go into play when it comes to curbing cybercrime, adding that the factors are largely economic.

He said the government must provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and drive job creation and invest more in the digital and creative economy.

“The future of work is remote, so the government must invest in power and internet infrastructure. Also, the approach to fighting cybercrime must change. Instead of random raids on every young person with dreadlocks, agencies of government tasked with fighting cybercrime (both police and EFCC) must intelligently trace the source and flow of illicit funds and nab the criminals.”