…….Set National Benchmark in Land Administration
By:Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
Since his appointment as Executive Secretary of the Borno Geographic Information Service (BOGIS), Engineer Adam Bababe has presided over one of the most ambitious and successful transformations in the history of land administration in Borno State. His leadership has attracted widespread commendation, notably from Mustapha Muhammed Ali, a prominent cultural advocate and Executive Director of Babsons Global Network Limited, who is better known by his traditional title, Goni Awana Ngala.
Speaking on behalf of his team of cultural stakeholders, Goni Awana praised Bababe’s achievements, describing them as a fusion of administrative innovation and cultural patriotism. He noted that under Bababe’s stewardship, BOGIS has not only achieved unprecedented institutional efficiency but has also restored critical elements of Borno’s cultural identity. One of the most significant efforts in this regard was the restoration of Maiduguri’s original street names, many of which had been replaced over time with names that bore no relevance to the state’s heritage.
According to Goni Awana, these actions reflect a deliberate effort to protect Borno’s indigenous values from what he described as creeping cultural imperialism. He said the restoration of historically and culturally appropriate street names has served as a symbol of renewed pride and ownership for local communities, strengthening ties between citizens and their environment.
He further commended Bababe for his inclusive approach to leadership, particularly his commitment to youth involvement in governance. Describing Bababe as a role model for emerging leaders, he urged Governor Babagana Umara Zulum to integrate more young professionals into key positions in government. He argued that Bababe’s performance clearly demonstrates the impact of entrusting responsibility to young, visionary individuals who possess the political will and discipline to drive reform.
The results achieved by BOGIS in the five years from 2020 to 2024 provide a compelling case study in public sector transformation. During this period, the agency conducted valuation assessments for compensation in 1,610 cases and successfully executed 1,604 valuation assignments. Additionally, 597 survey and sub-division assignments were carried out, with only 45 cases left untreated an efficiency rate that is rarely recorded in public land administration anywhere in Nigeria.
In the area of grants and allocations, the agency processed 6,713 requests, received 6,102 files, and fully treated 6,005 of them. Only 97 files remained pending, underscoring the high operational throughput achieved under Bababe’s leadership.
Further data from 2021 to 2024 reinforces the agency’s performance. Within that timeframe, 2,098 valuation files were received, and 1,708 approvals were issued by the Governor. Another 449 files were processed following payment of the required consents, and 764 cases involving surrender and sub-division were successfully completed. Only 218 cases were delayed due to non-payment of the 7 percent statutory fees, while 189 files were pending due to outstanding ground rent. Additionally, 201 consent and deed-of-assignment files were awaiting final approval from the Governor.
The issuance of 1,792 Certificates of Occupancy during the same period further attests to the success of the reforms. Analysts say such numbers are not just impressive; they are transformative in a context where land administration has long been plagued by inefficiency, corruption, and opacity.
Observers attribute the success to a combination of leadership integrity, system automation, and consistent performance monitoring. The agency’s revenue collection has improved markedly, with previously overlooked or infrequently paid charges now being remitted promptly. This has contributed to the growth of internally generated revenue for the Borno State government.
More importantly, the activities of BOGIS in recent years have helped demystify land ownership processes for ordinary citizens, many of whom previously viewed land administration as inaccessible and riddled with bureaucracy.
As Borno continues on its path of reconstruction and renewal, many believe that the BOGIS model under Engr. Adam Bababe offers a roadmap for other public institutions seeking to align administrative competence with cultural consciousness. His ability to drive reform while safeguarding heritage has not only restored confidence in land governance but has also affirmed the potential of public service when placed in capable hands.
About The Author
