Nigeria raises alarm over cyber-slavery, condoles with Iran on port explosion
By Kunle Sanni
The Federal Government has issued a strong warning about the rising threat of cyber-slavery targeting Nigerian youths across West Africa, while also extending heartfelt condolences to the Islamic Republic of Iran over the recent tragic explosion at the Shahid Rajaee Port.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government expressed grave concern over the alarming increase in cases where young Nigerians, including minors, are lured abroad with false promises of lucrative crypto-related jobs, only to be trafficked into cybercrime syndicates. Victims are forced to work under coercive and inhumane conditions in criminal call centers—referred to as “419 cyber-scam factories”—sending thousands of fraudulent communications worldwide.
The Ministry highlighted a recent rescue operation by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra, Ghana, which freed a group of Nigerians held under such exploitative conditions, stressing the urgent need for greater vigilance.
It warned Nigerian youths and parents to be extremely cautious about suspicious job offers, particularly those related to cryptocurrencies, overseas travel, or promises of quick money. Citizens were urged to verify employment opportunities through official channels and promptly report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The statement further assured the public that the Federal Government is collaborating with regional partners, law enforcement agencies, and international organizations to combat these criminal networks, rescue victims, and prosecute perpetrators.
Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Ministry conveyed Nigeria’s condolences to Iran following the devastating explosion at the Shahid Rajaee Port near the Strait of Hormuz, which claimed 28 lives and injured over 800 people on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
“Nigeria stands in solidarity with Iran during this difficult time and shares in the grief of the families who lost their loved ones in the unfortunate incident,” the Ministry stated, commending the swift emergency response and urging continued efforts to support affected communities.
