The federal government has issued a strict directive banning the use of personal email accounts for official work. This ban applies across all public sector institutions, including major departments handling sensitive data.
The move aims to strengthen data security and safeguard critical state information from potential breaches.
Official Circular and Ministry Directive
A formal circular has been circulated referring to an earlier instruction from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.
It mandates that all government departments immediately stop using non-official email services for official communication.
The circular specifically targets private email platforms such as Gmail, Yahoo, and Hotmail.
Risks of Using Private Email Platforms
The ministry highlighted that some government officials continue to use personal emails to exchange official documents.
Such practices pose serious threats to national security, data confidentiality, and overall information integrity. The National Telecommunication and Information Technology Security Board has repeatedly warned about vulnerabilities.
Private email servers are not part of the government’s secure infrastructure and are highly prone to cyberattacks.
Unauthorized access and data leaks can occur easily if sensitive information is sent through non-official channels.
Mandatory Use of Government Email Accounts
The circular emphasizes that all formal communication must be conducted through registered government email addresses.
This includes official documents, departmental reports, and inter-office correspondence.
Administrative secretaries and department heads are instructed to ensure immediate compliance and strict enforcement.
The directive also requires them to inform all subordinate offices about this policy without delay.
Accountability and Security Breaches
The government has warned that any security breach through unauthorized email accounts will be the officer’s responsibility.
Institutions failing to comply will face administrative scrutiny for compromising confidential data. This policy ensures accountability and reinforces the importance of secure communication channels.
Importance of Secure Digital Communication
Using government email accounts ensures encryption, controlled access, and reduced cyber risks.
It also aligns with broader national cybersecurity policies and strengthens digital governance. By eliminating private email usage, the government minimizes opportunities for unauthorized leaks or malicious attacks.
Conclusion
The ban on personal email accounts highlights the government’s commitment to protecting sensitive data. Officials and institutions must comply immediately to avoid security risks and administrative penalties. Secure, official communication channels are now mandatory across all public sector organizations.
