The Federal Government has raised alarm over the growing threat of cyber-slavery in West Africa.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Yusuf Tuggar expressed concern over the alarming rise in cases of cyber-slavery across parts of West Africa, which he said “primarily targets Nigerian citizens, especially vulnerable youths.”

According to him, many young Nigerians, including underage teenagers, are being lured out of the country with false promises of lucrative employment opportunities abroad, particularly in crypto-related operations.

“In reality, these individuals are trafficked into sophisticated scam operations and forced to work in criminal call centers, often referred to as ‘419 cyber-scam factories,'” Tuggar said.

“There, under coercive and inhumane conditions, they are compelled to send thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and calls aimed at defrauding victims worldwide.”

He cited a recent incident where the Economic and Organised Crime Office in Accra, Ghana, rescued and detained a group of Nigerians who were forced into cybercrime activities under inhumane conditions.

“This incident highlights the severe exploitation and abuse associated with cybercrime operations. It also underscores the urgent need for enhanced efforts to dismantle these multibillion-dollar criminal networks and reduce the vulnerability of potential victims,” he said.

Tuggar warned Nigerians, especially youths and parents, to exercise utmost caution when presented with job offers, particularly those that promise easy money, overseas travel, or remote work involving cryptocurrencies.

He advised Nigerians to verify all employment offers through official channels and report any suspicious cases to the relevant authorities for prompt investigation and action.

“As a precautionary measure, the government is working closely with regional partners, law enforcement agencies, and international organizations to tackle this heinous crime, rescue victims, and bring perpetrators to justice,” he added.

The Foreign Minister reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens both at home and abroad and raising awareness about emerging threats to their welfare and dignity.

Understanding Cyber-Slavery

Cyber-slavery is a modern form of human trafficking where individuals are lured, often through online job offers or social media, into traveling abroad or to remote areas.

Once there, they are forced to work under brutal, inhumane conditions — usually running internet scams, committing cybercrimes, or performing labor under constant surveillance and threats. Victims often have their passports seized, are subjected to violence, and live in captivity with little chance of escape.

In recent years, hundreds of young Nigerians have fallen prey to cyber-slavery rings in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos.

Many were tricked with promises of lucrative tech jobs, only to be enslaved in scam centers, forced to defraud others online.

How Nigerian Youths Can Best Avoid Cyber-Slavery

1. Verify Job Offers Carefully: Always research companies thoroughly. Genuine employers do not ask applicants to pay for travel, visas, or training.
2. Be Cautious on Social Media: Treat unsolicited messages about “high-paying jobs abroad” with suspicion, even if they come from friends or acquaintances who may themselves be trapped.
3. Consult Official Channels: Before accepting any overseas offer, consult embassies, the Nigerian Ministry of Labour, or reputable recruitment agencies.
4. Stay Informed: Follow news updates and government warnings about trafficking hotspots and tactics used by cyber-slavery syndicates.
5. Educate Others: Share information with friends and family to create a stronger, better-informed community that is harder for traffickers to exploit.

Cyber-slavery is a growing global crime, and Nigerian youths must be alert, cautious, and empowered with knowledge to avoid falling victim.

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