BY: ABDULKADIR M LAWAN, OCTOBER 25, 2026/ 05:06PM
The Borno Geographic Information Service (BOGIS) has warned members of the public, particularly prospective land buyers, to verify the ownership and allocation status of any property before entering into transactions.
The warning followed the demolition of illegal structures erected on government-owned land along the Shuwari–Khartari axis, behind the 1,000 Housing Estate in Maiduguri.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the agency's spokesperson, Halima Abatcha, the exercise was jointly carried out by BOGIS and the Borno State Urban Planning and Development Board (BOUPDB).
According to her, the exercise is to prevent unauthorised occupation and protect government property.
She said the affected land forms part of the remaining government-owned area adjoining the land allocated for the construction of the 1,000 Housing Estate.
BOGIS disclosed that available historical records indicate that compensation for the land was paid to affected farm holders during the administration of former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff, while buffer zones and other portions were reserved for government and public purposes.
The agency cautioned the public to always verify land titles with appropriate authorities before commencing development to avoid falling victim to fraudulent transactions involving government-owned land.
It reaffirmed the state government's commitment to protecting government-owned land from encroachment and ensuring that land reserved for public purposes is preserved in accordance with established regulations.