Margaret Lawrence University has prohibited students from using smartphones on campus, warning that first-time offenders could face a two-week suspension.
The institution explained that the measure was introduced to help students concentrate more on their academic work, noting that smartphones often serve as a major source of distraction during learning activities.
Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ernest Izevbigie, stated this in Abuja on Monday during the third matriculation of the school for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The Guardian reports that over 272 students matriculated. While the hybrid event was conducted physically at the Abuja main campus, it held virtually at the Delta campus.
Speaking with reporters, Prof Izevbigie said the decision was to avoid distractions, stressing that first time violators risk two-week suspension with the penalty increasing with every offence.
His words: “Using of smartphones can be can be a distraction, and they (students) all know that. Their parents know that. As a matter of fact, that is one of our selling points. They are not allowed to use smartphones so they can communicate.
“They have non smartphone, or that regular phone to make calls, texts, but to be given opportunity to go to a site that you don’t have business going at least while you are our school. We don’t think that’s a good idea. We think that you should focus on your study”.
In his remarks, the Founder and Pro-Chancellor of the institution, Paul Odili, charged the students to remain disciplined and focused on their academic pursuits, urging them to take full advantage of the learning environment provided by the university.
He reminded them that the primary reason for being in the institution was to acquire knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and build the character needed to succeed in their chosen careers.
According to him, maintaining discipline and a strong commitment to their studies would not only help them excel academically but also prepare them to become responsible leaders and professionals in society.
Also speaking, former Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission ((NUC), Prof Abubakar Rasheed, commended the institution for setting up a teaching hospital within three years of its establishment.
He described the achievement as remarkable, noting that many second-generation universities in Nigeria required nearly two decades to establish similar facilities.
Prof Rasheed said the development reflects the institution’s strong commitment to advancing medical education, research and healthcare training.
