The Federal Teaching Hospital in Gombe State has issued a directive prohibiting its staff members from engaging in cryptocurrency trading during work hours.
This decision was communicated in a circular dated September 18, 2024, signed by Adamu Tela, the Deputy Director of Administration.
The circular, which has since gone viral, highlights concerns over the distraction caused by staff participating in cryptocurrency activities while on duty.
A copy of the notice was obtained by Naija News on Friday, confirming the hospital’s stand against such activities.
Cryptocurrency trading has become a widespread phenomenon in Nigeria, with many people across different age groups participating in digital coin markets.
Platforms like TapSwap, Yescoin, Notcoin, Dawg, among other Telegram mining ventures, have gained popularity and generated significant profits for some Nigerians.
The circular stated: “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 emphasized that there will be repercussions for staff who ignore the directive, adding that strict disciplinary actions will be taken in line with the Public Service Rules.
He continued: “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.”
Tela urged all staff members to focus on their assigned duties with seriousness and diligence, emphasizing that the priority should be the care and service provided to patients.
This ban is a clear move by the hospital to maintain professionalism and ensure that the welfare of patients is not compromised by distractions from digital currency trading.
