The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has praised the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) for its growing impact in combating cybercrime and strengthening Nigeria’s digital security framework.
This commendation is contained in the 2025 UNODC Annual Report on Cybercrime in Nigeria,
which highlighted the Centre’s operational achievements, including the recent arrest of 93 Chinese
nationals and other Asian suspects linked to large-scale cyber-enabled crimes across the country.
According to the report, the successful operation significantly boosted the Centre’s profile and
demonstrated Nigeria’s increasing capacity to tackle transnational cybercrime networks.
UNODC further disclosed that the NPF-NCCC recorded remarkable success in financial restitution
during the 2024 operational year. The Centre recovered ₦8.82 billion, 115,237.91 USDT
(cryptocurrency), and $84,000 from cybercrime syndicates. All recovered funds were returned to
affected victims.
In addition, 685 devices used in cybercrime activities were dismantled, disrupting criminal networks
and preventing further digital fraud.
International Recognition and System Upgrades
The UN body’s commendation comes shortly after the Centre was named the Best Cybercrime Unit in
Africa by INTERPOL’s Cybercrime Directorate in Singapore, outperforming similar units from 54
African countries.
The report also acknowledged improvements to the Centre’s public engagement system, particularly the
upgrade of its complaint process to an e-reporting platform, enabling faster and easier reporting of
cybercrime incidents by members of the public.
What This Means for Nigerians
financial scams. Improved cybercrime response also boosts investor confidence, protects digital
transactions, and strengthens trust in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
Continued Support and Collaboration
While presenting copies of the report to the Director of the NPF-NCCC, UNODC reaffirmed its
commitment to supporting the Centre through funding, specialised training, and advanced
technological tools to further enhance its effectiveness.
Reacting, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, commended
UNODC for its sustained partnership and reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring
a safer cyberspace for all.
With growing international recognition and sustained collaboration, the achievements of the NPF-
NCCC reflect Nigeria’s evolving capacity to confront cyber threats and protect citizens in an
increasingly digital world.
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