Okonjo-Iweala Warns Public Over AI-Manipulated Video Promoting Fake N2.6m Investment Scheme

The Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has distanced herself from a manipulated video circulating online that fraudulently uses her image to promote a high-return investment scheme targeting Nigerians.

In a statement issued via her official X account on Wednesday, the former Nigerian finance minister alerted citizens to the sophisticated AI-generated content and urged the public to treat it as entirely fake.

"Just alerting Nigerians. Another fake AI-manipulated video. The authorities are handling. Anything emanating from these sources with my image is not from me. I just don’t want people to be duped," she said.

How the Scam Works

The deepfake video features a voice closely resembling Okonjo-Iweala's, inviting Nigerians to participate in what it falsely describes as an "official programme" designed to help citizens "secure and grow their wealth."

According to the fraudulent promotion, participants are promised earnings of up to N2.66 million within one week, requiring a minimum investment of N380,000. The scheme claims to offer daily automatic returns and describes the investments as "government-backed."

The promoters further allege that only 4,000 slots are available—exclusively for Nigerians over 30 years old—and claim that more than 80 percent of these slots have already been reserved. They also assert the platform is managed by financial market experts capable of guaranteeing fund security and executing profitable trades.

Okonjo-Iweala's Clarification

The WTO chief emphasized that she does not operate accounts on Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp for such promotions, noting that X remains her only official social media platform.

She confirmed that relevant authorities have been notified and are actively addressing the matter.

Be Aware

This incident highlights the growing threat of AI-generated disinformation and deepfake technology in financial fraud. Citizens are advised to:

- Verify any investment opportunity through official channels

- Be skeptical of promises guaranteeing unusually high returns

- Report suspicious content impersonating public figures

Okonjo-Iweala's warning serves as a timely reminder of the importance of digital vigilance as scammers increasingly deploy sophisticated technology to exploit unsuspecting victims.