GOGIS Reaffirms Commitment to Transparent Land Administration in Gombe, Announces Final Recertification Window

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The Gombe State Geographic Information System (GOGIS) has reiterated the state government’s resolve to uphold transparency, accountability, strict compliance with the Land Use Act, and the protection of legitimate land interests, as it moves to ensure efficient and orderly land administration across Gombe State.

At a press briefing held on December 31, 2025, the Director General of GOGIS, Dr Kabiru Usman Hassan, disclosed that the agency has approved a final extension for the recertification and collection of allocation letters in the newly redesigned Shehu Abubakar District, formerly known as BAP 4 Layout.

Dr Hassan explained that the exercise is part of broader land reforms initiated by the Gombe State Government following the lawful revocation of Rights of Occupancy in the area, in line with Executive Order No. 007 of 2024 and Section 28 of the Land Use Act, due to breaches of conditions of grant and overriding public interest.

According to him, the government, through GOGIS, carried out a comprehensive and open process involving layout redesign, verification of claims, documentation, and recertification of eligible allottees.

He noted that the government took these steps to restore order, eliminate irregularities, and strengthen confidence in land administration.

“The aim is to build a system that is fair, transparent, and compliant with the law, while safeguarding the rights of legitimate allottees,” Dr. Hanan said.

Dr Hassan announced that the final extension for recertification and collection of allocation letters will run from Sunday, January 5 to Friday, January 16, 2026, strictly for individuals who had already participated in the earlier documentation and verification exercise.

GOGIS Boss  emphasised that the extension reflects the government’s sense of responsibility and inclusiveness, following appeals from affected allottees who were unable to complete the process within the earlier deadline.

Eligible individuals are expected to present relevant documents, including proof of documentation, original title papers, valid identification, and other supporting requirements where applicable.

He warned that failure to comply within the extended period would be regarded as a voluntary forfeiture, after which such plots would revert to the state government for reallocation in line with existing laws and policies.

The GOGIS boss cautioned the public against misinformation, urging them to seek clarification directly from the agency on all matters relating to land allocation, payments, and penalties.

Dr Hassan confirmed that Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s administration is dedicated to improving land management by following the law, ensuring responsibility, protecting rightful claims, and supporting sustainable growth in Gombe State.

Members of the public were advised to take full advantage of the final opportunity to regularise their land documents and support the government’s drive for an efficient and orderly land administration system.

GONET Mourns Fallen Journalists, Describes Billiri–Kumo Tragedy as Blow to Gombe Media Community

The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organizations (GONET) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of journalists and media workers who lost their lives in a fatal road accident along the Billiri–Kumo Road.

In a condolence message addressed to the management of NTA Gombe, Gombe Media Corporation (GMC), the Gombe State Ministry of Information, and the leadership land members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Gombe State Council, GONET described the incident as a heartbreaking loss to the media industry and the entire state.

According to the network, the deceased journalists were dedicated professionals who served the public with courage, integrity, and commitment to truth. GONET noted that their contributions to information dissemination, accountability, and good governance played a vital role in the social and democratic development of Gombe State.

“Their passing is not only painful for their families and colleagues, but also a major setback to the media fraternity and the broader society that relied on their voices and professionalism,” the statement said.

GONET said it stands in solidarity with NTA Gombe, GMC, the Ministry of Information, and the NUJ Gombe State Council during this difficult period. The organization also prayed for the speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

The civil society network commended the Gombe State Government and relevant authorities for their prompt response to the tragedy, while calling for sustained support, unity, and prayers for the affected families and institutions.

GONET further prayed for Almighty God to forgive the shortcomings of the departed souls, grant them eternal rest, and give their families, colleagues, and the entire media community the strength to bear the irreparable loss.

The condolence message was signed by Ibrahim Yusuf, Chairman of the Gombe Network of Civil Society Organizations (GONET).

Wildan Care Foundation Mourns Seven Journalists Killed in Gombe Road Crash

The Wildan Care Foundation has joined the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Gombe State Council, in mourning the tragic loss of seven journalists who died in a fatal road accident in the state.

In a heartfelt condolence message, the Foundation described the incident as a devastating blow to the media community, Gombe State, and the country at large. It noted that the deceased journalists were committed professionals whose work contributed immensely to public enlightenment, accountability, and the strengthening of democracy.

Speaking on behalf of the Foundation, its Executive Director, Hajiya Zariyatu Abubakar, said the untimely deaths have created a painful void, not only within the NUJ but among all who appreciate the critical role of the press in society.

She expressed sympathy to the leadership and members of the NUJ in Gombe, as well as the families, friends, and colleagues of the departed journalists, urging them to remain united and prayerful during the difficult moment.

“This is a heartbreaking loss that reminds us of the risks journalists face in the line of duty. Our thoughts and prayers are with the NUJ family and the loved ones of those we have lost,” Zariyatu Abubakar said.

The Foundation prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the souls of the deceased and asked for divine strength and comfort for their families and the entire media fraternity. It also wished those who sustained injuries in the accident a quick and full recovery.

Reiterating its solidarity with journalists, the Wildan Care Foundation called on relevant authorities to intensify efforts toward improving road safety and enhancing the welfare and protection of media practitioners.

“May Almighty Allah forgive their shortcomings and grant them eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus. Ameen,” the statement concluded.