BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, JULY 10, 2025 | 03:00 PM
The Borno Geographic Information Service (BOGIS) has announced a three-week deadline for all parties involved in the BOSA/178 layout controversy to finalize their land claims.
It was announced during a stakeholders meeting held on Wednesday, offers a pathway to finally resolve the lingering issues surrounding the layout located adjacent to the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army.
Engr. Adam Bukar Bababe, the Executive Secretary of BOGIS, provided a clear explanation of the dispute's origins during the meeting.
He detailed how the BOSA/178 layout, initially designated as a light industrial zone in 1979, was later redesignated as residential in 1999 to meet the growing demand for housing, leading to the allocation of plots to deserving individuals.
He also highlighted that BOGIS has been actively engaging with all concerned stakeholders over the past two years.
This inclusive approach involved original allottees, current occupants, traditional title claimants, community leaders, and their representatives, all in an effort to address persistent disputes arising from issues like illegal sales, multiple claims, and informal developments.
'Today’s meeting marks the final phase of our stakeholder engagement,' Engr. Bababe stated, emphasizing the importance of the set deadline.
'We have given all affected parties a three-week window to finalize internal settlements and complete documentation. After this period, government will do the needful in line with applicable laws.'
Reinforcing the government's position, Engr. Bababe reminded attendees of a 2016 court ruling that affirmed the government's ownership of the layout, following a lawsuit filed in 2013.
He stressed that BOGIS's renewed efforts are aimed at achieving a lasting and equitable resolution to the matter.
Further signaling progress, the BOGIS boss announced that a comprehensive house-to-house assessment will soon be initiated to meticulously verify both statutory and customary titles.
Following this verification process, final approvals and comprehensive development planning will proceed in strict adherence to Borno State’s urban planning regulations.
This development offers a positive outlook for the orderly and legal development of the BOSA/178 layout, bringing much-needed clarity and the potential for growth to the area.