By Imam-Malik Abdullahi Kaga
The Borno Geographical Information Board (BOGIS) which is led by Engr Bababe, was established with the aim of bringing change and transformation in the land administration of the state. Despite this clear objective, there is widespread skepticism among the citizens of the state that BOGIS is created to demolish their properties instead. However, such fears and misconceptions are unfounded and without basis. However, it is important to know its goals, and how it intends to impact the land administration of Borno state. Endeavour and read the first publication of the series titled: “THE TRUTH ABOUT BOGIS; it’s not about demolition but transformation” which therein the introduction lies.
BOGIS is a vital component of the state government’s efforts to develop a robust and efficient land administration system in Borno state. The board is tasked with the responsibility of acquiring, processing, and managing geospatial data for the development of the state. The board is also responsible for maintaining an accurate and up-to-date land inventory of the state, including all the necessary data on land ownership, demarcation, surveys, and certification, among others. The mandate of BOGIS is to achieve an efficient, transparent, and accountable land administration system that is in line with national standards and international best practices.
The board was not established to demolish houses or buildings indiscriminately. Such a notion is false and misleading. The board is primarily focused on developing a system for the efficient administration of land in the state, which, among other things, will help to prevent illegal settlements and land grabbing. The BOGIS also provides a framework for the development and planning of infrastructure, housing, and other essential services in the state.
One of the key objectives of BOGIS is that it introduces an integrated land administration system that streamlines the land registration process in the state. Such a system will remove the cumbersome bureaucratic processes that have been a significant hindrance to land administration in the state. The BOGIS also makes the land registration process more transparent, faster, and efficient, thereby reducing the incidence of fraud and corruption in land administration. One of the key results of the BOGIS is the increased benefits that accrue to the owners of properties (land) in the state.
BOGIS recognizes the critical role of technology in the administration of land. As such, the board is designed to leverage the latest technology and best practices to achieve its objectives. BOGIS also collaborates with other stakeholders, including private sector organizations and development partners, to ensure the success of the board. The board involves stakeholders at the grassroots level to ensure that they are carried along in the process of land administration in the state.
While it is understandable that some citizens may be skeptical about the board and its operations, it is essential to emphasize that the board is brought to live to achieve positive change in the land administration system in Borno state. The initiative recognizes the importance of involving all stakeholders in the process, including the citizens of the state. As such, the board has undertaken a robust sensitization campaign to educate citizens about the aims and objectives of the initiative.
To end with this, BOGIS led by the indefatigable Engr Bababe is not created to demolish houses or buildings in Borno state, but rather to bring about positive change and transformation in the land administration system of the state. As the initiative takes root, it is expected to have a positive impact on the growth and development of the state.
