SAHARA REPORTERS
President Bola Tinubu has decried the labelling and blanket stereotyping of Nigeria as a country with the prevalence of cybercrime and other forms of corrupt practices.
Tinubu spoke on Wednesday at a Public Engagement on Youth, Religion, and the Fight Against Corruption, organised by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) through Vice President Kashim Shettima.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the stereotyping of Nigerians undermines the majority of the citizens to maintain the principles of integrity and diligence.
The President regretted that over the years, the entire Nigerian populace had been linked with internet crimes without statistical proof.
He noted that on the contrary, “Nigerians are meticulous, authentic citizens who have been making significant contributions to innumerable fields of endeavours around the world.
“Over the decades, Nigerians have been victims of mislabelling. Such gross misrepresentation fails to reflect the true essence of our diverse and resilient nation.
“The association of internet crimes with the entire Nigerian populace lacks statistical evidence and does not align with the sociology of everyday Nigerians.”
President Tinubu maintained that the country comprises of hard-working and honest citizens who contribute significantly to various fields globally, from Artificial Intelligence to medicine.
He said that Nigeria rejects the blanket stereotyping that undermines the majority who are upholding principles of integrity and diligence.
“We must face the fact that we function in an interconnected world where cybercrimes have evolved into a global phenomenon. This poses a threat not only to our nation but to the entire world,” he said.
Delivering his speech titled, “Youth, Religion, and Our Battle Against Corruption: A Call to Action,” Tinubu commended the EFCC for remaining a moral compass, persistently rousing the nation’s conscience.
He underscored the urgency of combating internet crimes and neutralising the threat caused by other forms of corruption head-on.
He said, “The government is aware that our ambitious goal of eradicating internet offenses and corruption demands an atmosphere steeped in trust and integrity.
“We must foster open communication channels and ensure that law enforcement actions align with justice and accountability.”
The President reminded the Nigerian youths that there were abundant opportunities for lawful enterprises, both within and outside the shores of the country.
This, he said, was the reason why the Federal Government had taken steps to establish a Students Loan Board to address the financial needs of students.
“Our message to the youth is clear: the horizon is wide, and opportunities abound across various sectors.
“Seize these prospects, embark on lawful enterprises, and let your talents shine.
“The government encourages you to leverage these opportunities, exhibit your capabilities across all sectors, and contribute to the prosperity of our great nation,” he said.
