Margaret Lawrence University Matriculates 272 Students While Implementing Strict Campus Smartphone Ban Policy

Margaret Lawrence University matriculates 272 students in Abuja, enforcing a smartphone ban and mandatory business registration for all graduates.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 17, 2026, 8:32 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Nation Newspaper

Formal Induction into the Academic Community

Margaret Lawrence University celebrated a significant milestone with its third matriculation ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session, welcoming 272 fresh students into its scholarly fold. During the event held in Abuja, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ernest Izevbigie emphasized that matriculation serves as a sacred academic tradition, formally bonding the students to the institution through a solemn oath of allegiance. This cohort joins a growing campus that has seen rapid expansion since academic activities first commenced in November 2023, following the university's initial licensing in 2022.

Prioritizing Focus Through Communication Restrictions

In a distinctive move to preserve academic integrity, the university has adopted a strict policy banning smartphones on campus. Professor Izevbigie defended the measure as a key selling point for parents, arguing that high-end mobile devices serve as primary distractions for students. While smartphones are prohibited, the institution permits the use of basic mobile phones for essential communication with families. The administration has established a graduated penalty system for violators, ranging from a two week suspension for initial offences to stiffer disciplinary actions for repeat offenders.

Fostering a Culture of Mandatory Entrepreneurship

The Vice-Chancellor outlined a vision for the university that extends beyond traditional degree attainment, specifically targeting post graduation self sufficiency. Izevbigie mandated that every student must develop a comprehensive business plan and register a legal entity with the Corporate Affairs Commission before completing their studies. By treating each student’s unique identity as a foundation for innovation, the university aims to ensure that its graduates do not merely seek employment but enter the workforce as established business owners ready to contribute to the national economy.