The Federal Teaching Hospital in Gombe State has officially banned its employees from engaging in cryptocurrency trading during their working hours.

This decision was made known through a circular issued on September 18, 2024, signed by Adamu Tela, the Deputy Director of Administration.

The notice, which has quickly gained traction online, outlines the growing concern over staff being distracted by cryptocurrency activities during their shifts.

The circular partly read:

“I am directed to caution all members of staff to desist from mining and all forms of related crypto trading activities while working.

“The warning became necessary due to a series of complaints received from patients and their relatives on how the trading activities distract staff members from performing their primary assignment while at their duty post.”

Tela further stressed that non-compliance would result in strict disciplinary action, aligning with Public Service Rules.

“Consequent upon this, I am further directed to inform all members of staff that the management will not hesitate to take drastic action in accordance with Public Service Rule against any staff that is caught engaging in such trading while working and the management has already deployed SERVICOM, ACTU and security officers around to monitor and ensure compliance with the directives,” he added.

This move by the hospital comes at a time when cryptocurrency is increasingly popular across Nigeria, with platforms like Hamster Kombat, TapSwap, Yescoin, Notcoin, Dawg, among the many Telegram-based opportunities that have been generating profits for Nigerians.

However, this surge in interest has raised concerns about its effect on workplace productivity, particularly in high-responsibility environments like hospitals.

The hospital’s management aims to ensure that staff members remain focused on their primary duties, prioritizing patient welfare over personal digital trading activities.