In a bold move to streamline land administration and embrace digital governance, Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State on Saturday signed Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, officially merging the Bureau for Lands and Surveys into the Taraba Geographic Information Services (TAGIS).
The governor said the landmark reform is in line with global best practices aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and service delivery in land management across the state.
“This is not about who is senior or junior, it is about competence, relevance, and vision. Taraba must move with the times. We are building a future-ready system that will outlive us and empower future generations,” Governor Kefas stated during the announcement.
Under the new structure, the Bureau for Lands becomes a functional department within TAGIS, which will now serve as the central authority for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and digital land management in Taraba State. The reorganization follows the enabling law that established TAGIS as the primary body for land-related digital operations in the state.
As part of the changes, the Director of Lands has been reassigned as the Technical Adviser on Land Records, Compliance, and Physical Inspections within TAGIS.
Governor Kefas reassured civil servants affected by the directive that no job losses would occur. However, he emphasized the importance of adapting to the state’s digital transformation agenda. “Everyone must realign with this vision,” he said.
To ensure a smooth transition, the governor also established a Transition Committee tasked with overseeing the implementation of the directive. He called on the public to direct all land-related inquiries and matters to TAGIS going forward.
The executive order marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to modernize governance and improve service delivery through technology.
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