Otuaro Unveils Reforms To Humanise Niger Delta Amnesty Programme

By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has announced sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the programme and improving the lives of ex-agitators in the Niger Delta region.

Speaking at a closed-door meeting with ex-agitator leaders in Yenagoa on Saturday, Otuaro emphasised his commitment to moving beyond the current N65,000 monthly stipends.

The meeting, attended by key figures including His Royal Highness, Selky Kile Torughedi (General Young Shall Grow) and Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) President Jonathan Lokpobiri, focused on Otuaro’s vision for a more impactful and human-centered PAP.

“Our reforms are designed to add value beyond the monthly stipends,” Otuaro stated. “We must give this programme a human face, ensuring it leaves a lasting positive impact on the lives of the people.”

He highlighted the strong support of President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing the President’s understanding of the region’s challenges and commitment to the programme’s success.

Otuaro stressed the importance of unity amongst Ijaw and Niger Delta people to leverage this support and secure further opportunities for growth and development.

Otuaro detailed several initiatives already underway, including:

Skills Acquisition: 98 beneficiaries completed maritime skills training last year, with further training programs in aviation engineering (45 graduates expected in March) and pilot training (four graduates from South Africa).

Scholarship Expansion: The number of scholarship beneficiaries for the 2024/2025 academic year has been increased from 1,700 to 2,500, with a focus on transparency and accountability in the selection process.

Future Initiatives: Planned economic empowerment programs for women and leadership training for ex-agitator leaders are in the pipeline.

Former ex-agitator leaders, including Paul Eris (General Ogunboss) and Bony Ayah (General Don Inikio), praised Otuaro’s efforts and called for continued stakeholder support.

They also lauded the commitment of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) to Niger Delta’s liberation.

Otuaro concluded by appealing for cooperation from all stakeholders, reiterating his dedication to serving the people of the region.

The meeting underscored a renewed focus on empowering the Niger Delta through comprehensive and human-centered development initiatives under the Presidential Amnesty Programme.