Internet Fraud and Challenges of Redeeming Nigeria’s International Image: Issues and Prospects 2015-2025

Abstract

Recurrent Internet fraud in Nigeria has significantly damaged the country’s international image, particularly through high-profile cases involving foreign victims. This negative perception has imposed various socio-economic costs on Nigerians, including heightened scrutiny during visa applications, restrictions on international financial transactions, reputational embarrassment at global entry points, and reduced trust in cross-border business engagements. This study examines the challenges undermining government efforts to combat internet fraud and restore Nigeria’s global reputation. Anchored on Routine Activity Theory (RAT), the research adopts a mixed-method approach, utilizing interviews, questionnaires, and secondary data sources. Findings reveal that the problem extends beyond legislative inadequacy to include poor implementation of existing laws. Key issues identified include inconsistent enforcement mechanisms, infrastructural deficiencies, and insufficient training among law enforcement agencies. Additionally, weak inter-agency coordination creates operational gaps that cybercriminals exploit. Empirical evidence further highlights systemic challenges such as the absence of functional national databases, lack of standardized regulatory frameworks, weak institutional structures, and the erosion of rule of law institutions. The study concludes that addressing these challenges requires not only institutional reforms but also strict enforcement of existing legal provisions. It recommends that the Federal Government ensure effective implementation of the Cybercrime (Prevention, Prohibition, etc.) Act, 2015, particularly through the prompt prosecution of offenders. Such actions would serve as a deterrent, rebuild public trust, enhance Nigeria’s international credibility, and improve its attractiveness to foreign direct investment (FDI).