In a sweeping clampdown aimed at tightening discipline and boosting productivity, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a decisive ban on the use of smartphones and all internet-enabled devices by staff on Grade Level 14 and below during office hours.
The directive—captured in a circular referenced FCT/DLA/259/III obtain by Sahara reporters, addressed to all Heads of Divisions, Sections, Units, and staff of the Department of Land Administration and the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS)—orders full enforcement of the policy beginning Monday, December 1, 2025.
According to the memo, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and all smart devices are now prohibited within office premises during working hours. Staff are expected to submit these gadgets into secured storage cabinets once they resume duty each morning. Access to the devices will only be granted during officially designated break periods.
The circular, obtained by Sahara Reporters, also reaffirmed the outcome of a general staff meeting held on November 18, 2025, where workers purportedly consented that only basic torchlight phones—with no internet capabilities—would be permissible for essential communication during work hours.
Quoting the directive, the memo stated:
> “Enforcement of the no-use of smart phones, smart watches, smart gadgets, etc., within office premises during working hours will commence on Monday, 1st December, 2025. Secured cabinets have been provided for safe keeping of such devices, accessible only during break time.”
The administration warned that non-compliance will attract strict disciplinary actions, urging all affected staff to align with the new reality.
Management personnel have also been mandated to ensure full enforcement among their subordinates, leaving no room for excuses or laxity as the policy takes effect.
With this directive, the FCTA becomes one of the boldest government institutions to officially outlaw smartphones in the workplace—an unprecedented move that is already generating strong reactions among civil servants and observers alike.
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