EFCC Boosts Digital Security to Fight Financial Crimes

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is working to improve its digital systems and cybersecurity to tackle growing financial crimes.

EFCC chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede, who was represented by Nwanyinma Okeanu, the deputy director of public affairs at the commission, spoke at the second International Cybersecurity Conference (ICSC) 2026 in Abuja on Tuesday.

The conference lasts for two days and is themed 'Cyber Resilience in the Age of AI: Defending Minds, Networks and Nations'.

Mr Olukoyede pointed out that criminals are using digital technology to target many people, move money across borders, and hide their activities.

"For us in law enforcement, the message is clear: as crime evolves, our response must evolve with it," he stated.

He explained that the commission has started a digital transformation program. This will reduce manual work, improve access to information, automate tasks, and boost operational efficiency.

According to him, this effort has led to several digital platforms that support the commission’s work. These include the e-Petition Platform, Enterprise Case Management System (ECMS), Fraud Risk Assessment and Management System, and Asset Management System.

"Every new system and digital service creates opportunities, but it also introduces risks," he added.

The EFCC chairman mentioned that the agency is strengthening its network and information security. This includes improving security monitoring, access controls, and incident response systems.

Momo Cyprus, the chairman of the Defence, Intelligence and Security Committee of the Liberian Senate, urged for responsible use of AI to protect citizens and national security.

Mr Cyprus, who represents Lofa County, said AI has great potential to improve public services, enhance education, speed up research, and empower African innovators.

But he cautioned that this technology could also be used to spread false information, enable fraud, and weaken trust in political institutions.

"Our task is not to fear technological progress, but to ensure that it serves humanity responsibly," he emphasized.

The Liberian senator referred to the 2026 African Cyber Threat Assessment Report by INTERPOL. This report highlighted how cybercrime is becoming more advanced and how criminals increasingly use AI.

He called for digital literacy, critical thinking, public awareness, and responsible communication to help people spot and avoid online scams.

"We must encourage every citizen to pause, verify and act carefully before sharing information or responding to suspicious requests," Cyprus said.

On protecting networks, Mr Cyprus noted that governments, banks, hospitals, communication systems, and energy infrastructure rely more on secure digital networks to operate effectively.

He said Liberia is taking steps to strengthen its cybersecurity with the Cybercrime Act of 2025 and the National Cybersecurity Strategy for 2025 to 2029, focusing on proper implementation.

The two-day conference brought together policymakers, cybersecurity experts, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to discuss ways to boost digital security in the age of AI.