The Foundation for Peace Professionals (FPP) has commended the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in its continued effort to carry out their voluntary support to the military.
For several years, CJTF in partnership with the military continues to man various check points entering major towns in Borno state.
In FFP after a 5 days situation visit to the Borno state, observed that the presence of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) is a blessing, rather than curse to the state.
The Executive Director, Foundation for Peace Professionals (FPP), Abdulrazaq Hamzat, in a press statement issued yesterday in Abuja explained that during the visit it discovered that the state is experiencing the best of time since 2011, as economic situation, educational progression and other developmental activities is improving by the day.
According to him, this is contrary to most media reports which have been exaggerating the security situation, particularly in Maiduguri, the state capital.
“This improvement we observed, in addition to the military activities, can be credited to several factors, such as improved activities of non-governmental organizations (NGO) which has been able to fill the gap in situations that government falls short, particularly in area of refugee housing, post traumatic disorders training, counseling, reuniting of dispersed family and alot more.
“This complementary effort has allowed the military concentrate on more important task, such as pursing the insurgents to the hinterland of the Sambisa forest.
“Additionally, opening and clearance of Bama and Baga Road for better business and regional development is a positive development which FPP find very welcoming.
“This has allowed free movement of people in that axis to pursue economic activities and it has allowed population influx into the state to a great benefit.
“FPP also observed certain infrastructural developmental activities being carried out by the state government within Maiduguri and other neighboring towns, which is a credit to the government.
“We also noticed that the state government has taken the bold step of stopping the burning of firewood for the purpose of making charcoal. This has helped to retain forest conservation.
While there is a lot of positive development in Borno State, the group express concern about certain challenges that may arise after the insurgency is completely defeated.
“We are also concerned about the destroyed town and communities, who will rebuild them and create opportunities for the youth, women and vulnerable people
“Additionally, the traumatic experience of the people, particularly
children cannot be underestimated. We have reports of primary children of between age 5-10 drawing AK47 riffles.
“This has become a part of their daily experience and the need for Post Traumatic Disorders (PTD) rehabilitation for the whole region cannot be over emphasised.
“We therefore call on government, regional and international
organizations to come up with clear recommendation to address these important issues,” he said.
