The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), headed by Minister Nyesom Wike, has reintroduced a strict ban on the use of smartphones by specific categories of employees during working hours. Beginning Monday, 1 December 2025, affected workers will be restricted to using only basic “torch-light phones” for official communication.
The directive was issued in a circular dated 28 November 2025 and signed by Amaka Ezike, Assistant Director (Administration), with reference number FCT/DLA/259/III. It applies to staff on Grade Level 14 and below in the Department of Land Administration (DLA) and the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS).
The circular explicitly prohibits smartphones, smartwatches, and any internet-enabled devices during work hours.
How the Policy Was Agreed Upon
According to the FCTA, the decision stemmed from a staff-wide meeting held on 18 November 2025, where employees and management jointly endorsed the restriction. As part of the agreement, only phones without internet capabilities will be permitted within office premises.
“All affected staff are reminded of our collective resolution during the Staff General Meeting held on Thursday, 18th November 2025, that only torchlight phones without any internet facilities will be allowed during office hours,” the directive noted.
Compulsory Storage of Smart Devices
The new rule also requires staff to deposit their smart devices in designated secure lockers upon arrival. These devices may only be retrieved during designated break periods.
Employees who violate the rule by using a smart device during official hours will face disciplinary measures. Departmental heads and supervisors have been instructed to monitor full adherence across all affected units.
“Affected officers are advised to comply strictly with this instruction, as any breach will attract sanctions,” the circular warned.
Public Concerns and Possible Reasons for the Ban
Although the FCTA did not provide a public justification for reinstating the ban, observers argue that the policy is intended to improve internal security, prevent leaks of sensitive information, and reduce unauthorised activities in departments that handle strategic land and mapping data.
Analysts also believe the move reflects efforts by the Wike-led administration to tighten oversight within critical operational units.
Background: The Viral Encounter with Lt. Yerima
The timing of the circular has generated further speculation, coming shortly after a viral confrontation between Minister Wike and Lt. A.M. Yerima, a Nigerian Army officer who blocked the minister from entering a disputed property on 11 November 2025.
The video, which spread widely across social media, showed Lt. Yerima insisting he was following orders, earning widespread praise from Nigerians who described him as bold and principled.
While the FCTA has not linked the smartphone ban to the incident, commentators suggest the administration may be seeking to better control how sensitive internal events are captured and shared publicly.
