By Amos Aar
BENUE State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has signed an executive order establishing the Benue Geographic Information System (BENGIS) Agency.
Performing the function Wednesday at Government House, Makurdi, the governor stated that the move aims to enhance land administration, improve geographic information management, and modernize land governance in the state.
The BENGIS agency is tasked with processing and issuing land titles, conducting general mapping for security, agriculture, and urban planning, and enhancing revenue generation.
Governor Alia emphasized the importance of structured land administration, stating that accurate data on residents, establishments, and land usage is crucial for development. He explained that BENGIS had been granted formal legal authority in 2020 but now needed further restructuring to operate effectively under his administration.
“We want to know who lives in the state, where they live, what they do, and how many establishments exist. There is a lot of work left undone that must be addressed,” he said.
He directed the agency to work closely with the Ministry of Land and Survey to create a unified system for land records, ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in land resource management.
The Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Legal Matters, Barr. Se-ember Wayo, presented the document for the Governor’s signature.
Speaking on behalf of the BENGIS team, Director General, Prof. Daniel Amine, expressed appreciation for the trust placed in them and reaffirmed their commitment to fulfilling their responsibilities.
