By Abubakar Yunusa
The National Chairman of the Civilian Joint Task Force, Prof. Dr Engr Kailani Muhammad, has been honoured with the Humanitarian Service Award of Excellence for his contributions to national security and human rights mediation.
The award was conferred on Muhammad on Saturday in Abuja by the International Human Rights Protection Service in recognition of his role in supporting security agencies and promoting peace-building efforts across the country.
Speaking after receiving the award, Muhammad said the recognition was an encouragement for the CJTF to intensify its collaboration with the police, the army, the Department of State Services and other security agencies in combating insurgency, kidnapping and other forms of criminality.
He disclosed that the CJTF was advocating the establishment of a national security control room to coordinate intelligence sharing, surveillance and monitoring of criminal movements across the country.
According to him, modern intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance technologies, including drones with mapping and video capabilities, should be deployed to proactively track and neutralise criminal networks.
Muhammad also renewed calls for the fencing of Nigeria’s borders, noting that similar measures had enhanced security in other countries.
He said the CJTF had continued to work alongside the military in several states, including the Federal Capital Territory, stressing that unity among commanders and cooperation with the President were critical to restoring peace and stability.
The CJTF chairman added that the award had international significance, revealing plans to arrange special forces training for Nigeria and other African countries in collaboration with international partners.
However, Muhammad expressed concerns over some government policies, particularly newly introduced electronic taxes, which he said were worsening the economic hardship faced by citizens.
He urged the Federal Government to review such policies and prioritise the welfare of the population, noting that good governance and economic stability were essential for sustainable peace.
Muhammad thanked the CJTF commanders nationwide and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to supporting government efforts to secure the country and promote unity.