Obi Calls for Redirection of ‘Yahoo Boys’ Talents to Drive National Development
ONITSHA, Nigeria – In a speech that has sparked widespread discussion, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has stated that the creativity and intelligence of internet fraudsters, popularly known as ‘Yahoo Boys,’ should be harnessed for national development rather than merely condemned .
Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, made these remarks on Saturday, October 25, while addressing youths at the Golden Health Conference held at the Archbishop Patterson Auditorium, All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha .
A Call for Redirection Over Condemnation
The central theme of Obi’s address was the need to redirect the skills of misguided youths into productive ventures. He argued that many of these individuals possess rare talents that are currently being wasted on criminal activities.
“I told the youths that some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation,” Obi was quoted as saying across multiple news outlets . “Their creativity and courage, if properly guided, can drive innovation and national development. Our challenge is to channel their energy from deception to productive enterprise” .
The conference, themed “Money Beyond Wealth,” was focused on addressing the erosion of moral values and the growing materialism among Nigerian youths . Obi revealed he cut short a two-day engagement in the United Kingdom to attend, underscoring the importance he placed on the event’s message .
Defining “True Wealth” and Leadership’s Role
Beyond the comments on cybercrime, Obi used the platform to elaborate on his concept of true wealth, contrasting it with the reckless pursuit of money.
· Moral Foundation: He stated that while money is important, it is only a fragment of true wealth, which is built on a foundation of “integrity, character, and purpose” .
· Societal Impact: “Real wealth uplifts both the individual and society, promotes education, reduces poverty, and creates opportunities for others to live dignified lives,” he emphasized .
· Leadership Accountability: Obi also cautioned that national progress is impossible without ethical leadership. “Leadership must lead by example, for a nation that rewards dishonesty cannot build integrity,” he said, warning that the reckless pursuit of wealth destroys both character and community .
A Broader National Context
Obi’s comments come amid ongoing national concern about the activities of internet fraudsters. As noted in one report, the activities of ‘Yahoo Boys’ have damaged Nigeria’s international reputation, with the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, previously describing them as a “national shame” .
In his speech, Obi also stressed the need for fairness and merit as the foundation of Nigeria’s progress, famously remarking, “No religion or tribe buys bread cheaper than another. Nigeria is blessed with abundant resources; what we lack is the will to do what is right” .
He concluded by commending Most Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo, the Bishop of the Diocese of the Niger, and the conference organizers for promoting moral renewal and ethical leadership among young people .
About The Author
