The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has expressed grave concern over the alarming rate of cybercrime among youths in Lagos State, warning that this trend threatens both individual futures and national development.

Ahmed Ghali, Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, made this known on Thursday during a seminar titled "The Role of the Boy Child in Community Development and Safety." The event was organized by the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Bode Thomas Division, at the Area C Command Headquarters in Surulere, Lagos.

Speaking through Babatunde Sulaiman, Head of Public Affairs at the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Ghali lamented that many young Nigerians are jeopardizing their futures by pursuing wealth through illegal means.

"As beautiful as your dreams may be, they could be doomed from the start if you don't embrace the culture of discipline and integrity. The reason is clear: many youths are increasingly drifting towards antisocial behaviours that can disrupt public peace, harm individuals, or degrade the environment," Ghali stated.

He highlighted that internet fraud has become a "prevalent pastime" among many youths, describing the trend as particularly worrisome given that a significant number of young people have become morally adrift in their quest for quick wealth.

The EFCC official emphasized that while the internet offers tremendous opportunities for legitimate economic empowerment, its misuse undermines both personal development and societal progress.

"If you use it wisely, it can elevate you financially and enable you to contribute to your community's development. However, if you choose to use the internet for criminal purposes, you won't just harm your unsuspecting victims, but you'll also jeopardize your own personal goals," he warned.

Ghali urged Nigerian youths to redirect their creativity and energy toward ethical and legal online ventures. He stressed the importance of aligning personal ambitions with values that support long-term success and positive contributions to society.

The seminar forms part of ongoing efforts by the EFCC and law enforcement agencies to combat the rising tide of cybercrime in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos, which has become a notable hotspot for such activities.