The President of the Association of Nigerian Community in Finland (ANCF), Hon. Kingsley Abisi, has warned Nigerians against falling victim to fraudulent job, study admission and relocation schemes targeting people seeking opportunities in Finland.
Abisi raised the alarm over the activities of individuals who allegedly present themselves as agents, consultants, recruiters or intermediaries and promise prospective migrants jobs, admissions and residence opportunities in Finland in exchange for money.
He urged Nigerians to exercise extreme caution when approached with offers that appear too good to be true, stressing that genuine employment and educational opportunities in Finland follow established procedures and can be independently verified.
“Nobody should be deceived into believing that paying someone guarantees a job, admission or residence permit in Finland. People must verify every claim independently before parting with their money,” he said.
The ANCF President advised prospective migrants to independently verify any employment or educational offer before making payments or submitting personal documents.
He urged prospective students to confirm the existence of the institution and programme being offered, check official admission requirements and, where possible, communicate directly with the institution.
Similarly, those offered employment should verify the employer, vacancy, employment contract, salary and other relevant details independently.
Abisi identified several warning signs that prospective applicants should take seriously, including promises of guaranteed jobs or admissions, demands for large upfront payments, requests to transfer money to personal accounts without proper justification and claims of having special connections with Finnish companies, universities, government officials or immigration authorities.
He also warned against questionable employment contracts or admission letters, pressure to make immediate payments and individuals who prevent applicants from independently contacting employers or educational institutions.
According to him, applicants should not rely solely on social media testimonials, screenshots, WhatsApp messages, Facebook posts or TikTok videos as proof that an opportunity is genuine.
“If someone approaches you and says, ‘I can get you a job in Finland if you pay me,’ or ‘I can guarantee your admission,’ stop and verify. Do not allow desperation or the dream of coming to Finland to override common sense,” Abisi said.
He further advised Nigerians to be cautious about handing over passports, identification documents, bank details and other sensitive personal information to individuals whose credentials have not been independently verified.
While acknowledging the growing desire among Nigerians to study, work and build a future in Finland, Abisi said such aspirations could be exploited by unscrupulous individuals.
“We understand the dream. Many people want to come to Finland to study, work and build a better life. But that dream should not become an opportunity for someone else to exploit you,” he said.
The ANCF President said the Association would continue to provide accurate information and promote responsible engagement within the Nigerian community in Finland.
“Our message is simple: VERIFY BEFORE YOU PAY. Ask questions. Check the source. Contact the employer or school directly. Do not rely solely on WhatsApp messages, Facebook posts, TikTok videos or promises from an individual,” he said.
He also advised anyone who suspects that they have encountered a fraudulent scheme to preserve relevant evidence, including messages, receipts, advertisements, contracts and payment records, and report suspected wrongdoing to the appropriate authorities.
Abisi reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to protecting the interests and reputation of Nigerians in Finland while promoting access to reliable information about legitimate opportunities and life in the country.