Gombe Teaching Hospital Prohibits Staff from Cryptocurrency Trading During Work Hours

The Federal Teaching Hospital in Gombe, Gombe State, has issued a directive prohibiting its staff from engaging in cryptocurrency trading during work hours. The announcement, which quickly went viral, was contained in a circular dated September 18, 2024, signed by the hospital’s Deputy Director of Administration, Adamu Tela.

A copy of the circular, obtained by our correspondent, underscores the growing popularity of cryptocurrency in Nigeria, particularly among younger generations. Platforms like ‘Not Coin’ and ‘Dawg‘ have gained significant traction, offering Nigerians opportunities to mine cryptocurrency through platforms like Telegram, making it a widespread activity.

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.” It explained that this warning follows several complaints from patients and their relatives, who expressed concerns that the hospital’s staff were distracted from their duties by trading activities during work hours.

To curb this behavior, Tela warned that defaulters would face serious consequences. “Management will not hesitate to take drastic action by the Public Service Rule against any staff that is caught engaging in such trading while working,” Tela said. He added that SERVICOM, ACTU, and security officers have been deployed throughout the hospital to ensure compliance with the new directive.

The administration urged all staff to focus on their primary responsibilities and carry out their duties with diligence and seriousness.