By Sarah NEGEDU
Despite the backlash that greeted news of a planned ban on the use of mobile phones by staff of the FCT Department of Land Administration, the FCT Administration appears set to go ahead with the controversial policy.
A new internal circular issued on Friday reinforces the directive and confirms that enforcement will begin Monday next week.
The circular, addressed to all staff of the Department and the Abuja Geographic Information System, AGIS, states that from Monday, December 1, officers on Grade Level 14 and below will no longer be allowed into the office premises with their smart phones, smart watches or other smart gadgets.
The circular which was signed by the Assistant Director (Admin) Amaka Ezike, on behalf of the Ag. Director, Administration, warned that any violation of the directive will attract disciplinary action.
The circular which was addressed to Heads of Division, Section, Unit, Staff of Lands and AGIS, reads, “I am directed to inform all Staff of the Department of Land Administration and Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) on Grade Level 14 and below that Enforcement of No-Use of Smart Phones, Smart Watches, Smart Gadgets etc, within Office premises during working hours will commence on Monday, 1st December, 2025.”
It added that provisions have been made for secured cabinets where staff can keep their devices during work hours, and that they may only access them during break time. It also reminded staff of an earlier consensus reached during a general meeting held on November 18.
“In view of the foregoing, all affected Staff are hereby reminded of our collective resolution during the Staff general meeting held on Thursday, 18th November, 2025 that only torch light phones without any internet facilities will be allowed for the purpose of useful communication during office hours.”
Affected staff were further cautioned to comply strictly as “any violation will attract appropriate disciplinary action.” Management staff were also directed to ensure that the content of the circular is communicated across all units.
The decision, which first circulated about two weeks ago, had sparked widespread criticism among Nigerians who questioned both the necessity and targeted nature of the restriction, especially in a department already perceived as highly sensitive within the FCTA structure.
