Nigeria Police and UK National Crime Agency Launch “Real Odogwu No Dey Hide Him Face” Cybercrime Awareness Campaign

The Nigeria Police Force and UK NCA join forces to launch a 2026 cyber-hygiene campaign. Learn how "Real Odogwu No Dey Hide Him Face" targets youth online fraud.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 7, 2026, 5:42 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Peoples Gazette

Dismantling the Glamour of Online Fraud

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is taking a creative, cultural approach to combat the rising tide of digital illicit activity. Launched in Abuja, the “Real Odogwu No Dey Hide Him Face” campaign targets the psychological appeal of cybercrime among young Nigerians. CP Ifeanyi Uche, Director of the NPF-NCCC, explained that the term "Odogwu" (a title for a person of prestige and success) is being reclaimed to show that true success does not require hiding behind a screen to defraud others. The campaign aims to expose the "digital footprints" that lead to legal consequences, countering the flashy lifestyle often promoted by cybercriminals.

Collaboration with the UK National Crime Agency

A key feature of this initiative is the strategic partnership between the NPF-NCCC and the UK National Crime Agency (NCA). Matt Mountain, representing the NCA, emphasized that the British government is committed to supporting Nigeria's digital ecosystem. The collaboration focuses on enforcement, public education, and providing a counter-narrative to the idea that cybercrime is a viable shortcut to wealth. The UK authorities signaled that they would continue to work with the British High Commission to provide technical and strategic support to Nigerian law enforcement.

Rising Economic Toll of Cyber-Fraud

The urgency of the campaign is underscored by startling global financial data. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), revealed that worldwide fraud losses reached approximately $25.85 billion in 2025. This includes: