By Abba Alkali Goni, PhD
Land is one of the most scarce resources in the world and its ownership and administration comes with numerous challenges, particularly in the 21st century where traditional land ownership has been taken over by statutory authority and instruments of government. The establishment of the Borno Geographic Information System (BOGIS) by the Governor Zulum led administration marked a significant turning point in land administration in Borno State. The agency was created to champion and drive the state’s urbanization agenda and to ensure that land ownership and development conform to statutory provisions and urban planning standards.
Prior to the advent of BOGIS, the Ministry of Land and Survey was saddled with the responsibility of land administration, but its analog approach was ineffective in the 21st century. The emergence of BOGIS provided a comprehensive solution to land administration challenges, curbing dubious land deals and promoting transparency.
The appointment of Engr. Adam Bukar Bababe, a computer engineer and academic, as pioneer Executive Secretary of the agency, was the beginning of a new era. Engr. Bababe’s transformational leadership, decisiveness, and fearlessness have made him a goal-getter and a result oriented leader, akin to his mentor’s style of leadership. His choice by Governor Zulum was strategic, as he brought the required expertise to the role, where the entire land administration process has been automated and re-engineered. No, wonder, he was reappointed for a second term of office.
As the head of land administration, Bababe has brought a paradigm shift in the system and made tough decisions, which may have affected some individuals, particularly victims affected by dubious land sales and fake documentations. Such individuals have every right to ventilate their anger and frustrations but government is only convinced by evidence and logical reasons. As a leader, he has always advised victims to seek redress in a court of Law or alternatively reach a consensus among themselves for peace to reign.
In spite of the destructive criticisms which are unavoidable in every political dispensation, Engr. Bababe’s efforts have brought sanity to land deals, and his achievements outweigh any perceived weaknesses.The critics of the Zulum administration may focus on the perceived weaknesses to paint an ugly picture of a good motive that is yielding significant results. In contrast to their perspective, I chose to differ by focusing on the achievements of BOGIS under Engr. Bababe, which by extension are achievements of the Zulum led administration.
BOGIS has undergone significant transformations with Engr. Bababe at the helm of affairs resulting in a lasting impact. These include:
1. Automation of Land Title Documents, making it easier for citizens to obtain and manage land documents seamlessly.
2. Processing of Thousands of Certificates of Occupancy, which have been signed by Governor Zulum. This has also served as an empowerment mechanism where such certificates can be used as collaterals in accessing loans.
3. Enhanced revenue generation contributing to the agency’s operational runnings and the state’s developmental projects through prompt payment of ground rents and taxes.
4. Improved working environment to enhance staff welfare and motivation, where new structures have been constructed at the BOGIS headquarters.
5. Organization of town hall meetings to educate parties involved in land disputes.
6. Establishment of Customer Care Unit to attend to public complaints and needs.
Engr. Bababe’s leadership has demonstrated capacity, focus, and commitment to doing what is right. For those who always judge a book by its cover, he may seem strict, but those who know him appreciate his simplicity and jovial nature. He is a human being and thus imperfect, but inside his imperfections lies a strong leadership character that has inspired many young potential leaders in Borno state.
In conclusion, Engr. Bababe’s contributions to land administration in Borno State have raised awareness among citizens, promoting caution and transparency in land transactions. Citizens no longer purchase lands without due verification. Posterity will judge Engr Bababe’s Legacy and the Zulum adminstration as a whole for bringing a stoppage to irregularities that have turned to norms in our society. Indeed, Bababe’s decisive leadership style has not been only impactful but transformational.
Abba Alkali Goni, PhD.
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