By Adedapo Adesanya
Flutterwave has partnered with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to establish a state-of-the-art Cybercrime Research Centre as part of efforts to tackle internet crime and enhance the security of business transactions.
According to a statement, the San-Fransisco-based unicorn signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the anti-graft agency on June 14, 2024, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The deal was signed by the EFCC Secretary, Mr Mohammadu Hammajoda, and the chief executive of Flutterwave, Mr Olugbenga Agboola in the presence of the EFCC chairman, Mr Ola Olukoyede; the Director of Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), Mr Christopher Gray, and other senior officials from both agencies.
The partnership will see the construction of the Cybercrime Research Centre, which will be established at the new EFCC Academy in Abuja.
The centre would serve as a hub for advanced research, training, and capacity building in the fight against financial crimes. The areas of focus of the centre include advanced fraud detection and prevention, collaborative research and policy development, youth empowerment and capacity building, technological advancement and resource enablement, among other key areas.
Speaking at the event, Mr Olukoyede said, “This partnership marks a significant leap forward in our efforts to combat financial crimes and ensure a secure financial landscape for Nigerians. The Cybercrime Research Centre will significantly enhance our capabilities to prevent, detect, and prosecute financial crimes.”
On his part, Mr Agboola said, “This initiative underscores our commitment to creating a fraud-free financial ecosystem and leading the charge in safeguarding transactions across Africa.
“We applaud the EFCC’s relentless efforts to combat internet fraud and other illicit activities in the financial sector.”
The statement noted that other functions will include advanced fraud detection and prevention to detect and prevent financial fraud. The centre will offer comprehensive training for law enforcement and industry professionals to combat modern financial crimes effectively.
It will also serve as an entry point for collaborative research and policy development.
“Engaging in joint research initiatives and policy formulation to enhance the understanding and regulation of financial crime. The centre will provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and best practices between the public and private sectors.”
The centre would also provide a sustainable lifeline to youths across the country.
“Youth Empowerment and Capacity Building: Providing high-end training and research opportunities for 500 youths, equipping them with the skills needed to navigate and excel in the digital economy.
“Technological Advancement and Resource Enablement: Creating a repository of advanced tools, technologies, and resources to support financial crime investigations, including protocols for addressing emerging threats such as cryptocurrency-related crimes,” the statement concluded.
