The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under the leadership of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has issued a new directive prohibiting the use of smartphones and other smart devices by staff members on Grade Level 14 and below within office premises during working hours.
This move is expected to enforce Wike’s previous directive prohibiting smart phones during work hours. A move that was believed to have been made following the minister’s viral altercation with naval officer Yerima.
The directive was sent to all Heads of Division, Sections, Units, and employees of the Department of Land Administration and the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) in a circular with reference number FCT/DLA/259/III dated November 28, 2025.
The circular, signed by Assistant Director (Administration) Amaka Ezike on behalf of the Acting Director of Administration, states that the prohibition would be fully enforced starting on Monday, December 1, 2025.
According to the document obtained by sources, the restriction covers smartphones, smartwatches, and all internet-enabled gadgets, which staff will no longer be allowed to use or possess within office premises during working hours.
“To implement the directive, management has provided secure storage cabinets where affected officers are expected to deposit their devices upon arrival. These gadgets will only be accessible during official break periods,” the circular stated
The email also mentions the November 18, 2025, staff general meeting, where employees apparently decided that only simple “torchlight” phones without internet access would be allowed for necessary contact during business hours.
The management team has been instructed to enforce the policy among their subordinates and ensure strict compliance.
The statement read, “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.
“However, there are provisions for secured cabinets where Officers could drop their smart phones and other gadgets for safe keeping and could only be accessed during their break time.
“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 Officers are hereby advised to comply strictly with this directive for any violation will attract appropriate disciplinary action.
“Management Staff are enjoined to bring the content of this circular to their subordinates and ensure strict compliance,” Ezike added.
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