By JIMMY PAM
The Plateau State Ministry of Lands, Survey and Town Planning has continued to record remarkable transformation under the leadership of Hon. Barrister Peter Gai, positioning the ministry as a key driver of reform, transparency and urban development in the state.
Widely regarded as a firm and result-oriented administrator, Barr. Gai has brought renewed discipline into land administration, tackling the long-standing challenge of land racketeering and restoring public confidence in the system.
Appointed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the commissioner has demonstrated a commitment to efficiency, accountability and service delivery, aligning the ministry’s operations with the broader vision of the administration.
Boost in revenue, efficiency
One of the most notable achievements of the ministry under Barr. Gai is the significant increase in internally generated revenue.
From about ₦173 million in 2023, revenue rose sharply to approximately ₦500 million by August 2024. By 2025, the figure had further surged to about ₦1.3 billion within eight months, reflecting improved efficiency, accountability and a stronger financial contribution to the state.
In addition, the processing of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) has witnessed a major turnaround. What previously took years can now be completed within two to three months, with over 2,200 certificates issued within a year—an unprecedented improvement compared to past administrations.
Digital innovation, administrative reforms
The introduction and strengthening of the Plateau Geographic Information System (PLAGIS) has marked a new era of digital transformation in land administration.
Through PLAGIS, land records have been digitised, transparency has been enhanced and incidences of corruption and bureaucratic delays significantly reduced. The system has also improved mapping, surveying and spatial data management across the state.
Alongside this, the ministry has streamlined processes for land allocation, title registration and survey approvals. These reforms have simplified procedures, improved turnaround time, and restored public trust in the system.
Infrastructure upgrade, improved service delivery
The ministry has also undergone visible infrastructural transformation, including the renovation and refurbishment of its facilities.
Offices have been upgraded with modern furniture, improved water supply and a more conducive working environment for staff. Key departments have been reactivated, while a well-furnished boardroom now provides a standard space for high-level engagements and decision-making.
Service delivery has equally improved across key areas such as surveying, mapping, urban planning approvals and land documentation. This has led to increased compliance with land regulations and greater public awareness of proper land processes.
Beyond administration, the ministry continues to play a vital role in supporting government policies through physical development planning, layout designs for residential, commercial and industrial use, as well as land policy advisory.
These contributions are critical to the state’s urban development and long-term infrastructure planning.
In practical terms, the ministry’s recent achievements can be seen in its higher revenue generation, faster land title processing, digital transformation, improved infrastructure and enhanced service delivery.
There is little doubt that under Barr. Peter Gai, the Plateau State Ministry of Lands, Survey and Town Planning is setting a new benchmark for performance and reform in public service.