As part of a strategic effort to bolster local security and sustain peace within Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, the council chairperson, Larai Sylvia Ishaku, has officially recruited 166 members of a Joint Task Force (JTF).
The volunteers were inaugurated on Wednesday at the Jaba Local Government Secretariat by the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa Gwabin (retd.), who was represented by his Senior Special Adviser, Mr. Musa Likita.
Speaking at the event, Likita described the initiative as timely, thoughtful, and commendable, noting that while Jaba Local Government enjoys relative peace compared to other parts of Southern Kaduna, proactive security measures are essential to forestall future threats.
He emphasised that even in a peaceful environment, it is necessary to prepare ahead, stressing that security and peace must always be protected and safeguarded.
He explained that the recruitment of the JTF was initiated by the local government chairperson with the support of community stakeholders, describing the move as a reflection of responsive, people-centred leadership.
According to Likita, “What the chairman has done, with the full support of the people of Jaba Local Government Area, is truly remarkable and deserves commendation.”
The Defence Ministry representative, while addressing the newly recruited volunteers, praised their willingness to serve, pointing out that their decision was a strong demonstration of commitment to community safety.
He added that their choice to volunteer and participate in the initiative showed their dedication to the security of their local government, noting that they had chosen to contribute meaningfully to the peace and stability of their communities.
He further explained that the training programme for the recruits began over a week ago and had required discipline, sacrifice, and commitment, stressing that it had not been an easy task.
He told them that the training demanded focus, endurance, and dedication, urging them to embrace these responsibilities wholeheartedly and assuring them that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed.
Larai Sylvia Ishaku described the inauguration of the Joint Task Force as a defining moment in the history of Jaba Local Government, reflecting the collective resolve of the people to safeguard peace and security.
She emphasised that although Jaba has enjoyed relative peace, recent security challenges in neighbouring communities and across the country underscore the need for vigilance and proactive measures.
“Peace must never be taken for granted. Security is not the duty of a few; it is the responsibility of all of us. Only by standing together can we protect lives, preserve property, and create the safe environment needed for growth and development,” she said.
The chairperson explained that the JTF was drawn from all 10 wards of the local government and would work closely with conventional security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders to strengthen security coordination and grassroots surveillance.
She outlined that the JTF’s mandate includes strengthening intelligence gathering, protecting lives and property, and addressing the menace of illicit drug abuse by identifying dealers, barons, and users within the communities.
“Today, you stand not only as a security outfit but as a beacon of hope for the people of Jaba, neighbouring communities, and surrounding local governments,” Ishaku stated.
She commended the volunteers for their sacrifice, courage, and commitment to public service, urging them to discharge their duties with discipline, integrity, and dedication.
The inauguration of the 166-member Joint Task Force is part of broader efforts by the Jaba Local Government administration to consolidate peace, strengthen community-based security structures, and prevent the spread of insecurity into the area.
The Wakilin Jaba, Elisha Musa, who represented the Paramount Chief of the Ham people, His Highness Danladi Gyet Maude, expressed full support for the initiative.
He described the programme as a pioneering and commendable gesture that would undoubtedly bring the lasting peace desired in Hamland.
Kaduna LG recruits 166 joint task force members to strengthen security
