Why we introduced layouts verification, documentation audit – GOGIS

The Gombe State Geographic Information Systems (GOGIS) has given reason for the ‘Layouts Verification and Documentation Audit (LAVEDA) policy its introduced in the state.

Communication and public affairs officer of the parastatal Sadiq Yahaya in a statement on the policy said it was launched by the organisation led by its Director General Dr Kabiru Usman Hassan as a response to the increasing complexities in land administration and management in Gombe State in 2021.

He explained that rapid urbanisation, population growth and economic development have led to various land-related challenges, including disputes over ownership, illegal land conversions, and unauthorised conversions and subdivisions hence the introduction of the LAVEDA.

“The program was designed to address these issues systematically and promote sustainable land use and development. The project’s primary objectives include, proper documentation of land titles, effective management of ownership changes, preservation of layout plans, and ensuring statutory compliance by title holders. These efforts are geared towards the holistic development of Gombe State.”, he stated in the statement.

He added that LAVEDA policy also helps in addressing fraudulent activities in documentation, fake allocations, identifying layout distortions, and non-compliance issues such as non payment of statutory annual ground rent.

“In February 2021, the programme was inaugurated, focusing on eight designated layouts within the Gombe Capital Special Development Zone. This zone was established under Executive Order 4A 2020, extending the state’s radius to 20 kilometres in the metropolis and 15 kilometres in the local government areas.

“The aim was to ensure compliance with the “Gombe State Master Plan” 2004 (revised 2023), facilitate infrastructural development, and enforce strict adherence to development control regulations around the state capital”.

He advised participants of the policy to only submit their documents to the technical staff of the LAVEDA committee, identifiable by their tags and avoid handing over documents to any staff outside the office to ensure the security and integrity of the verification process.