FCT administration under minister Wike restates ban on smartphones, permits only ‘torch-light’ phones for staff
Story by Okafor Vivian
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under Minister Nyesom Wike has re-emphasised its ban on smartphones and other internet-enabled devices for certain categories of staff, insisting that only basic “torch-light phones” will be allowed during working hours.
The directive was contained in a circular with reference number FCT/DLA/259/III, dated 28 November 2025, and issued to all personnel of the Department of Land Administration (DLA) and the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS). The circular targets workers on Grade Level 14 and below, warning them against bringing smartphones, smartwatches, or any smart device into the office.
According to the notice, the measure aims to strengthen administrative control and curb unauthorized activities believed to be facilitated through smartphones within the sensitive land and GIS units. Staff affected by the policy are expected to deposit their smart devices in designated secure storage cabinets upon arrival and retrieve them only during official break periods.
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The circular, signed by Amaka Ezike, Assistant Director (Administration), on behalf of the Acting Director of Administration, stated that the new enforcement takes effect from Monday, 1 December 2025. It added that only basic mobile phones without internet capability, commonly known as “torch-light phones”, will be permitted strictly for essential communication.
The directive also cautioned that any employee who violates the rule by possessing or using a smart device during office hours will face “appropriate disciplinary action.” Supervisors and departmental heads have been instructed to ensure full compliance and disseminate the information across all units.
This latest directive reinforces an earlier memo issued in mid-November, which had already restricted entry into AGIS and DLA premises with mobile phones for staff on the same grade levels. The renewed circular appears to broaden and formalize that initial instruction.
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The administration has yet to issue an official public explanation for the policy, but sources within the FCTA suggest it is aimed at tightening security, reducing distractions, and preventing data leaks within critical departments.
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