How We Reformed Land Administration In Gombe State – Ex-DG

The outgoing pioneer director-general of the Gombe Geographic Information Systems (GOGIS), Dr Kabiru Usman Hassan, has reflected on his six-year tenure, highlighting sweeping reforms that transformed land administration in the state through technology, transparency and institutional development.

In a farewell statement issued yesterday to journalists,  marking the end of his tenure, Hassan described public office as a trust that demands both dedicated service and accountability, saying it was his responsibility to give an account of the reforms implemented under his leadership.

According to him, GOGIS was established not merely as a government agency but as an institution designed to modernise land administration through technology, professionalism, transparency and institutional excellence.

He credited the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for providing the political will that enabled the agency to implement far-reaching institutional, legislative, policy and technological reforms.

Hassan said the agency established modern operational structures, developed a permanent service centre, digitised tens of thousands of land records and layouts, introduced digital Certificates of Occupancy, modernised geospatial mapping systems, strengthened physical planning processes, improved internally generated revenue and enhanced stakeholder engagement.

He added that the reforms positioned GOGIS as an institution capable of sustaining its achievements beyond the tenure of any individual office holder.”

“I remain profoundly grateful to His Excellency for the confidence he reposed in me and for demonstrating the political will that allowed professionals to discharge their responsibilities within the confines of the law, even when those decisions were difficult or unpopular,” he said.

The former Director-General also commended the management and staff of GOGIS for their professionalism and dedication. It acknowledged the support of government agencies, professional bodies, traditional institutions, development partners, security agencies, investors, and the people of Gombe State.

Reflecting on the challenges encountered during the reform process, Hassan said institutional resistance, legal complexities, operational constraints, public misconceptions, and personal intimidation tested the agency’s resolve.

He noted, however, that the experience reinforced the importance of courage, integrity, consistency and commitment to the public good in driving sustainable reforms.

While highlighting the agency’s achievements, Hassan acknowledged that not all objectives were realised during his tenure and admitted that some decisions attracted legitimate criticism.

He said every setback provided valuable lessons that strengthened both institutional resilience and leadership experience.

Emphasising the importance of strong institutions, Hassan urged public officials to prioritise institutional development over personal interests.

He maintained that the future of land administration and public sector governance in Nigeria depends on preserving institutional independence, promoting professionalism, embracing innovation and adhering strictly to the rule of law.”

“It has been an extraordinary honour to serve as the Pioneer Director-General of GOGIS. I leave office grateful for the opportunity, proud of the foundation that has been laid, mindful of the lessons learned and optimistic that GOGIS will continue to serve as a model of transparent, technology-driven land administration for many years to come,” he said.