Sokoto State on Monday marked a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey with the commissioning of the newly rehabilitated Sokoto Geographic Information System (SOGIS) Centre, designed to enhance land administration and service delivery.
The state-of-the-art facility, which underwent extensive renovation and technological upgrades at a total cost of N698,404,000, was formally inaugurated by the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni. Governor Buni was received by his host, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, alongside top government officials and stakeholders.
Describing the development as a landmark achievement, Governor Aliyu said the project reflected his government’s dedication to fostering transparency, accountability, and modern governance in Sokoto State.
“This commissioning is not merely the opening of a facility. It is the unveiling of a transformative platform that will drive efficiency and transparency in land governance across Sokoto State,” Aliyu declared.
Highlighting the improvements made at the centre, the governor disclosed that land applicants would now enjoy quicker processing and enhanced security measures.
According to him, the upgraded system features “Automated Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) Processing: Applicants can now obtain their certificates within two weeks of successful application, a major improvement over past delays.
“Personalised Applicant Dashboards: Applicants can track their application status in real-time through a secure digital platform.
“Secure and Verifiable Certificates. The new C of Os now carries digital barcodes to ensure instant authentication and legal security.
“Durable, Tamper-Proof Materials, Certificates are printed on waterproof, long-lasting materials to prevent damage and forgery.”
Governor Aliyu said these innovations position Sokoto as a leader in digital land management in Nigeria, adding that the reforms send a positive signal to potential investors and development partners.
“SOGIS is more than a system, it is a signal to prospective investors and partners that Sokoto State is ready for sustainable urban development and economic growth,” he said.
He commended the team of engineers, experts, development partners, and civil servants who contributed to the successful execution of the project, urging residents to make proper use of the facility to support smarter governance in the state.
Governor Mai Mala Buni officially commissioned the centre, an act symbolizing a new era of digital governance and infrastructural development for Sokoto State.
