The Federal Government on Sunday issued a strong warning to Nigerians about the growing menace of cyber-slavery, a rising form of human trafficking that is increasingly targeting young people in the region, PUNCH ONLINE reports.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by its spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, expressed deep concern over the increasing number of Nigerian youths being lured abroad under false pretenses and forced into cybercrime operations under inhumane conditions.

According to the Ministry, many of the victims, including underage teenagers, are enticed with offers of high-paying jobs, particularly in the crypto industry. Once abroad, they are trafficked into what are described as “sophisticated scam operations” and held against their will in what have become known as “419 cyber-scam factories.”

"There, they are forced under coercive and inhumane conditions to send thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages, and calls aimed at defrauding victims worldwide,” the statement noted.

A recent incident in Accra, Ghana, was cited as an example of this growing trend. The Ministry referenced the rescue of a group of Nigerians by the Economic and Organised Crimes Office in Ghana.

The individuals were reportedly held captive and made to engage in cybercriminal activities under abusive conditions.

“This incident highlights the severe exploitation and abuse associated with cybercrime operations,” the Ministry stated. “It also underscores the need for enhanced efforts to combat such multibillion-dollar criminal networks and mitigate the susceptibility of victims.”

In light of the growing threat, the ministry urged Nigerian youths and their families to be extremely vigilant about any job offers, especially those involving promises of overseas travel, easy income, or remote work in cryptocurrency-related fields.

“Nigerians are therefore advised to verify all employment offers through official channels and report suspicious cases to relevant authorities for necessary investigation and action to curtail the activities of the perpetrators,” the statement continued.

The ministry assured the public that the Federal Government is collaborating with regional and international partners to dismantle these criminal syndicates, rescue those affected, and ensure justice is served.

“The ministry remains committed to protecting Nigerian citizens at home and abroad and will continue to raise awareness about emerging threats to the welfare and dignity of our people,” Ebienfa concluded.