Teaching hospital bans doctors, others from cryptocurrency transactions during work hours

One of the teaching hospitals in the country, Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, Gombe State, has issued a directive barring its medical doctors and other employees from participating in cryptocurrency mining during working hours.

This decision was outlined in an internal memo dated September 18, 2024, and signed by the hospital’s Deputy Director of Administration, Adamu Tela. The memo, which has been circulating widely, was obtained by our correspondent on Friday.

Cryptocurrency activities have gained significant traction globally across various age groups, making it a common pursuit among many professionals.

The circular emphasized, “All staff are hereby cautioned to cease any cryptocurrency mining or related trading activities while on duty. This warning follows numerous complaints from patients and their families regarding how these activities have been distracting staff members from their core responsibilities.”

Tela warned that staff found violating the policy would face strict penalties, stating, “Management will not hesitate to take severe action, in line with Public Service Rules, against any employee engaging in such activities during work hours. Monitoring teams, including SERVICOM, ACTU, and security personnel, have already been deployed to ensure compliance.”

He further encouraged staff to focus on their duties with dedication and professionalism.