Margaret Lawrence University has announced a ban on the use of smartphones on its campus as part of efforts to improve students concentration and academic performance.
The policy was disclosed on Monday by the Vice Chancellor, Ernest Izevbigie, during the institution’s third matriculation ceremony for the 2025 2026 academic session held in Abuja.
During the ceremony, the university formally admitted 272 students into various academic programmes. The matriculation was conducted in a hybrid format, with the physical event taking place at the university’s main campus in Abuja while students at the Delta campus participated virtually.
Speaking after the event, Izevbigie explained that the decision to restrict smartphones was introduced to eliminate distractions that could affect students learning and concentration.
According to him, students will only be allowed to use basic mobile phones strictly for calls and text messages while on campus.
He warned that any student caught using a smartphone for the first time could face a two week suspension, while repeated violations would attract stricter disciplinary measures.
“Using smartphones can be a distraction and the students know that. Their parents also know that. In fact it is one of our selling points,” the vice chancellor said.
He added that allowing students unrestricted access to internet enabled devices during school hours could expose them to unnecessary online activities that may negatively affect their stus.
In his remarks, the Founder and Pro Chancellor of the institution, Paul Odili, urged the newly admitted students to remain disciplined and committed to their academic journey.
He reminded them that their primary goal at the university is to acquire knowledge develop critical thinking ss and build strong character that will prepare them for leadership roles and professional success.
Also speaking at the event, former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Abubakar Rasheed, praised the university for elishing a teaching hospital within three years of its existence.
He described the achievement as remarkable noting that many second generation universities in Nigeria took nearly two decades to reach similar milestones.
Meanwhile one of the newly admitted students Ido Abasi Ibanga said he chose to study medicine and surgery because of his passion to help people in medical distress and address the growing problem of quackery in the healthcare sector.
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