The University of Abuja bans the use of smartphones on campus

The Margaret Lawrence University authority has announced a ban on the use of smartphones on its campus.

The decision to ban was part of measures to improve students’ concentration and academic performance.

The vice-chancellor of the institution, Prof., revealed this on Monday in Abuja. Ernest Izevbigie, during the university’s third matriculation ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session, during which 272 students were formally admitted to various programs.

He announced that any student caught using a smartphone for the first time faces a two-week suspension, with harsher penalties for repeat violations.

The matriculation ceremony was held in a hybrid format, with the physical event taking place at the main campus of the university in Abuja, while students from the Delta campus participated virtually.

Addressing journalists after the event, Prof. Izevbigie explained that the decision to limit the use of smartphones was made to eliminate distractions that could affect students’ concentration on their studies.

According to him, students could only use basic cell phones for calls and text messages.

“Smartphone use can be a distraction, and students know it. Their parents know it, too. In fact, it’s one of our strengths,” he said.

“They may have regular phones for calls and text messages, but giving them access to browse sites they don’t need to visit while at school is not a good idea. We want them to focus on their studies.”

In his remarks, the university’s founder and pro-chancellor, Paul Odili, urged the newly admitted students to remain disciplined and committed to their academic goals.

He reminded them that their primary mission in college was to acquire knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and build strong character that would prepare them for leadership and professional success.

Odili stressed that discipline and dedication to their studies will enable them to excel academically and contribute positively to society.

Furthermore, the former Executive Secretary of the National University Commission (NUC), Prof. Abubakar Rasheed, commended the university for establishing a teaching hospital within three years of its existence, describing the feat as remarkable.

According to him, it took many second generation universities in Nigeria almost two decades to achieve similar milestones.

Rasheed noted that the development demonstrates the institution’s commitment to advancing medical education, research and healthcare training.

Meanwhile, one of the newly matriculated students, 17-year-old Ido-Abasi Ibanga, said he chose to study medicine and surgery with the aim of helping people in medical difficulties and combating the growing problem of quackery in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Ibanga said his ambition to become a doctor developed early in life, driven by compassion for sick people and a desire to make a significant impact in the medical field.

“I have always had a passion for helping people who need medical care.

“These days we see quack doctors around and I want to make a difference by helping those who truly need professional medical care,” he said.

He explained that his fascination with medicine, particularly surgery, lies in the complexity and precision involved in understanding and treating the human body.

“Medicine as a whole, especially surgery, really fascinates me. I see it as a beautiful work of art where you can study the human body and understand how everything works together,” he added.

While many Nigerian doctors seek opportunities abroad due to challenges in the country’s healthcare sector, Ibanga said his ultimate goal is simply to help people wherever they are.

“As much as I want to go global as a doctor, I don’t mind working anywhere because people need help everywhere in the world.

“What matters most to me is the satisfaction that comes from helping someone with a medical need,” he said.

However, he called on government authorities to improve the welfare and remuneration of medical professionals, stressing that the sacrifices involved in becoming a doctor deserve better recognition.

Ibanga said he chose Margaret Lawrence University for its modern teaching hospital and medical training facilities, which he said will provide him with the practical knowledge needed to succeed in the profession.

“Margaret Lawrence University has a very large hospital with equipment that most Nigerian hospitals do not have.

“Studying here gives me the opportunity to learn better and practice with modern tools under the guidance of professionals,” he said.

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