The Borno Overall Chairman of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Ba’Lawan Ja’afar, has reiterated the renewed commitment of the group in supporting the fight against remnants of insurgents in the state.
The CJTF was established by a law passed by the Borno Assembly to enable the volunteer indigent youths who know the terrain of Borno to assist the military in the fight against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.
Speaking to newsmen in Maiduguri, Ja’afar said the group would continue to play its role in facilitating the total clearance of remnants of terrorists in the state.
Ja’afar lauded the welfare support his members and hunters are receiving from the state government, pointing out that for the Ramadan period, Governor Babagana Zulum gave them money and a bag of rice each.
“The governor just gave N255m and a bag of rice each to CJTF members and hunters.
“The governor specifically directed that members are to be given N30,000 each as their monthly allowance for the month of March while N50,000 and a bag of rice each as Ramadan gesture.
“This is not the first time that our members are benefitting from the governor’s large hearted benevolence but this time is very special and timely in view of the economic situation and the fasting period.”
Ja’afar recalled other interventions by the government like the provision of houses, scholarship, business grants and skill acquisition training to families and orphans of CJTF members, and urged for sustenance.
“I want to assure His Excellency, Governor Zulum and the people of Borno State that we will not rest on our oars until lasting peace returns to the State and the North East region.
“We fervently solicit prayers from all people, particularly in this holy month of Ramadan for victory and lasting peace,” Ja’afar said.
Meanwhile, Zulum had at the presentation cash and rice to over 5,000 CJTF and hunters on Wednesday praised them and other volunteers for their efforts and sacrifices.
“I want to appreciate your efforts in complementing the military and other security forces to restore peace in the state. I assure you that your welfare is a top priority for me,” Zulum said.
