society
EFCC Partners Firm to Establish Cybercrime Research Centre – Olukoyede
EFCC Partners Firm to Establish Cybercrime Research Centre
– Olukoyede
As part of the efforts to prevent cybercrime and channel the digital skills of young Nigerians to more productive ventures, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has concluded plans to establish a Cybercrime Research Centre.
The Centre, which is being put together in partnership with a foremost fintech firm, Flutterwave, will serve as a research and resource centre for empowering Nigerian youths.
This was disclosed in Abuja on Tuesday by the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, at the National Summit on Cybercrime.
The Summit, with the theme “Alternatives to Cybercrimes: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development”, was part of the activities lined up to mark the first year in office of Mr. Olukoyede.
The EFCC helmsman said, “This Summit is the second to be organised by the Commission this year on the same issue owing to the overarching need for us to articulate opinions and build greater strength against the scourge of cybercrimes. This time around, we are not only interrogating the problem, we are aggregating workable solutions to it. This underscores the theme: Alternatives to Cybercrimes: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development.”
He bemoaned the erosion of acceptable family values and the tendency towards quick riches among young people instead of leaning towards enterprise, resourceful intellectual aspirations and technological innovations.
“Projections by multiple sources show that the global loss to cybercrimes may reach a staggering $10.5 trillion by 2025, with approximately 2,328 (Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Twenty-eight) cases occurring daily. The implication of all these is that, if left unchecked, cybercrimes portend grave dangers to the entire world.
“These are the realities stoking the Commission’s fight against these crimes. Cybercrime accounts for a significant percentage of the 3455 convictions recorded by the EFCC in my one year as Executive Chairman. A significant portfolio of choice assets have also been recovered and returned to both local and foreign victims of cybercrimes by the Commission,” Olukoyede said.
He reasoned that things have gotten a stage where there is a compelling need to “change the narrative from criminality to productivity, from idleness to usefulness and cybercrimes to cyber wealth”.
“To this end, the EFCC under my leadership, is completing work on a Cybercrime Research Centre where globally-competitive research would be running as an alternative avenue of empowering our youths. The Centre, the product of collaboration with one of our foremost FinTechs, Flutterwave, is envisioned as a learning, rehabilitating and refocusing centre for youths across the country. It could also serve as a research resort for law enforcement agencies interested in deeper understanding of issues involved in cybercrimes,” Olukoyede said.
He noted that the commission was not unaware of the misconceptions in certain quarters that it was concentrating on the fight against internet crimes.
“While this narrative is not really true, the fact remains that cybercrime threatens the nation’s most significant asset – its reputation, and economic wellbeing. The losses by the financial services sector to cybercrime in the last three years is staggering. We cannot continue to sit idly and watch the integrity of our institutions compromised and our youths degenerate into uselessness. The future of our nation cannot and would not be allowed to hang in the balance. We must take collective actions against cybercrimes,” Olukoyede said.
On alternatives to cybercrimes, the EFCC Chairman said, “There are ample skills that can be optimized for national development. It is this lack of serious cogitation on the alternatives that has not made our youths shift their focus from criminal tendencies. First, there is the alternative of creative and innovative development of socially-beneficial applications that can deliver better prospects than internet fraud.
“Today’s event is tailored towards exposing young Nigerian with strong tech skills to the opportunities that abound in various industries and sectors for legitimate wealth creation and honest livelihood. These opportunities can be found in the creative industry, tech ecosystem, financial services sector, medical services and even law enforcement.”
He also disclosed that the EFCC is setting up a Cybercrime Response Desk as part of its corruption prevention mandate of the Commission
“The Cybercrime Response Desk is to receive and process real time information on suspected cybercrime for immediate enforcement action to nip such cases in the bud. The initiative, in our estimation, will help in reducing incidences of cybercrime and possible loss of money by victims,” he said.
Olukoyede appealed to parents and all well-meaning Nigerians to join the EFCC in the fight against corruption and internet fraud, adding that the quality of our future as a people depends on what we do to tackle the menace today.
“Let me use this opportunity to appeal to the conscience of parents and heads of institutions across the country to regard the fight against internet fraud as a compelling endeavour. The quality of the future leadership of our nation depends on what we do with the issue of cybercrimes today. Tomorrow is not a promise. Tomorrow is a fruit of preparation. We must all join hands together to tackle the hydra-headed monster which internet fraud has become,” he added.
*GEN CG MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE HAILS GOVERNOR UBA SANI AS GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR 2025*
The General Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative (GCGMSI) has extended hearty congratulations to His Excellency, Governor Mal Uba Sani of Kaduna State, for clinching the prestigious “Governor of the Year 2025” award presented by the Leadership Media Group.
The honour was conferred at the 18th Leadership Conference and Awards Ceremony, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, in recognition of Governor Sani’s transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and development in Kaduna State.
In a statement signed by the Convener, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the GCGMSI lauded the Governor’s exceptional accomplishments since assuming office. The statement highlighted that the Grand Patron of the Initiative, His Excellency General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, Minister of Defence, also conveyed his personal congratulations, describing Governor Sani as “a true unifier” who has fostered remarkable unity across the state.
“Governor Uba Sani has brought unity to Kaduna State since his assumption into office,” the Grand Patron noted, adding that the Governor’s leadership exemplifies dedication to service and inclusive governance.
The GCGMSI further expressed profound appreciation to the Leadership Media Group for deeming Governor Sani’s administration worthy of such a distinguished honour. The statement emphasized that the award reflects the positive impact of the Governor’s policies and his relentless drive toward sustainable development.
Governor Sani, in his acceptance speech, dedicated the award to the resilient and hopeful people of Kaduna State, as well as to the hardworking public servants who strive daily to rebuild trust in governance and deliver meaningful change.
The GCGMSI acknowledged this gesture as a testament to the Governor’s profound commitment to serving his people. “His dedication shows how committed he is to serve his people,” the statement affirmed.
*ABOUT THE GENERAL CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE*
The General Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative stands as a dynamic and forward-thinking organization dedicated to national progress through youth empowerment and unity. With a mission rooted in educational development, ethical leadership, and social cohesion, the Initiative actively promotes:
– Educational development and unity among youths.
– Empowerment through values, leadership training, and development strategies.
– Campaigns against drug abuse and ethnic divisions.
Under the esteemed patronage of General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the GCGMSI continues to champion initiatives that foster a brighter, more united future for Nigeria, aligning with the visionary leadership exemplified by figures such as Governor Uba Sani.
The GCGMSI remains committed to supporting leaders who prioritize the people’s welfare and national unity, reinforcing its role as a key advocate for transformative governance and societal development.
**-END-**
Life lessons inspire my songs, says Afrobeats star Halley
Afrobeats star, Oladipupo Halley has revealed that life lessons are part of the inspiration behind his hit songs
The ‘Colos Timo Mogbe’ crooner whose versatility has earned him a good reputation in the music industry noted that music is the tool he uses to express himself and address societal challenges.
Speaking in an interview, Halley reiterated that his creative voice is inspired by real life, street stories, and deep reflections on success, struggle, and faith.
”My music blends African rhythms, soulful melodies, and street wisdom, creating sounds that connect with everyday people and real emotions.
”Through my songs, I speak on life lessons, loyalty, hustle, hope, and self-belief, using catchy hooks, strong rhythms, and relatable lyrics. I aim to inspire, entertain, and remind people to stay true to themselves while chasing their dreams,” Halley said.
The Business Administration and Management graduate started music as a member of the choir in his church before making it official in 2006 with his first studio single “I want you”.
After a brief break from music to focus on his education, Halley returned to the scene with another single titled ‘Oko ati iyawo’ in 2010, and he hasn’t looked back ever since.
His latest cut, ‘Life Struggle (Abeokuta Boi) is currently available on all digital streaming platforms.
”I’m also working on shooting the video of Life Struggle due to popular demand, and more will follow as 2026 is going to be a busy year,” Halley concluded.
*Dignitaries Storm Ambassador Ojadah’s Father’s 5th Year Remembrance Anniversary*
It was a remarkable gathering of distinguished personalities and eminent members of society as the UNIPGC Global President, His Excellency Amb. Jonathan Ojadah, hosted a memorable 5th Year Remembrance Anniversary in honour of his late father, Hon. Senior Evangelist Solomon Empire Daniel Ojadah, on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
The glamorous event took place at Omoba Royal Hotel, Afilaka, in the Agodo-Egbe area of Isolo/Ikotun, Lagos State, and attracted an array of highly respected dignitaries and notable personalities from across the country.
Leading the crème de la crème of royal fathers in attendance were:
HRM OBA (Dr.) Olasunkanmi Lawal Bello (COP),* The Onisheri of Isheri Kingdom, Lagos State
HRM Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Michael Ayeyowa,* The Lumure of Ayeka Kingdom, Okitipupa LGA, Ondo State
*HRM Oba Sofela Olalekan,* The Olu of Olomowewe Kingdom, Agbado, Ifo LGA, Ogun State
Also present was *Chief Olaniyi Adeleye,* CEO of Omoba Royal Hotel, alongside the Royal Mother of the Day, *Olori Chief Mrs. Mojisola Danni,* CEO of Ademoj Group of Companies.
The remembrance activities commenced with a Church Prayer Service held at the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Council Parish 1, Liasu Road, Egbe.
Among the royal attendees at the service was HRM Oba Sofela Olalekan, who delivered an inspiring message to the congregation.
The event transitioned into a grand reception at Omoba Royal Hotel, where guests were treated to warm hospitality and exquisite cuisine befitting the occasion.
Several dignitaries who delivered goodwill messages paid glowing tributes to Ambassador Jonathan Ojadah, describing him as a visionary leader and a man deeply committed to the welfare of his people.
In his remarks, Ambassador Ojadah expressed profound gratitude to God and to all who honoured the invitation despite their demanding schedules. He stated:
> “I give God the glory for this wonderful event. Today marks five years since the passing of my father, Hon. Senior Evangelist Solomon Empire Daniel Ojadah — a visionary leader whose foresight, courage, and commitment to excellence laid a solid foundation for leadership development and transformational growth. His passion for community development and the nurturing of principled leaders continues to reflect in our values, programmes, and impact. Though he is no longer with us physically, his vision and ideals remain a guiding light for the work we do.
>
> On this day of remembrance, we honour his enduring legacy with gratitude and reflection. The Ojadah family reaffirms its commitment to uphold the standards and purpose he stood for. May his soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
>
> This event is a success because of the people who stood firmly behind me. It is not about finances; your physical presence speaks volumes. I deeply appreciate our Royal Majesties from Ondo and Ogun States, as well as The Onisheri of Isheri Kingdom, who honoured us with their presence. I also thank those who travelled from abroad and across the federation. I sincerely appreciate every one of you.”
He extended special appreciation to his supporters, including:
Chief Olaniyi Adeleye (CEO, Omoba Royal Hotel)
Chief Dr. Moses Ake,
Amb. Rosaline Adedoyin Amangbo, Chief Amb. Gbenro Oladioupo, Mr. Olatunji (UK) – Ola Photo
Apostle Sunday Abiodun
He further expressed heartfelt gratitude to family members, especially Uncle Jeremiah Ojadah, Aunty Rhoda Ojadah, Uncle Benjamin, cousins, friends, Celebrities and well-wishers who graced the occasion.
The event concluded on a note of thanksgiving and reflection, as Ambassador Ojadah once again appreciated all attendees and prayed that everyone would live long to honour their parents in due time.
-
celebrity radar - gossips6 months agoWhy Babangida’s Hilltop Home Became Nigeria’s Political “Mecca”
-
society6 months agoPower is a Loan, Not a Possession: The Sacred Duty of Planting People
-
news6 months agoTHE APPOINTMENT OF WASIU AYINDE BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AS AN AMBASSADOR SOUNDS EMBARRASSING
-
Business6 months agoBatsumi Travel CEO Lisa Sebogodi Wins Prestigious Africa Travel 100 Women Award