March 02, (THEWILL) – The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has reaffirmed his commitment to reshaping the programme with a human-centered approach aimed at fostering sustainable development for the people of the Niger Delta.
Otuaro, who made this known during a closed-door meeting in Yenagoa on Saturday with ex-agitator leaders from Bayelsa State, emphasized that his reforms go beyond the N65,000 monthly stipends paid to beneficiaries.
The meeting was attended by His Royal Highness, Selky Kile Torughedi, popularly known as General Young Shall Grow, as well as the President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Jonathan Lokpobiri.
According to a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Igoniko Oduma, the PAP administrator noted that President Bola Tinubu’s support for the programme has strengthened his resolve to implement impactful reforms.
Otuaro said, “As soon as my leadership came on board, we began reforms to add value beyond the monthly N65,000 stipends. If we do not enhance the programme, we are not securing the future of our people.
“My priority is to ensure the initiative has a human face, so it leaves a lasting impact on the people. With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, providing massive support, the Niger Delta must remain united to attract further opportunities for growth and development.”
He highlighted key achievements, including the training of 98 beneficiaries in maritime skills, the graduation of four pilot trainees in South Africa, and the deployment of 45 individuals for aviation engineering training in Lagos, who are set to complete their programme in March.
On the deployment of scholarship beneficiaries for the 2024/2025 academic session, Otuaro stressed the importance of a thorough and transparent process.
He disclosed that the number of beneficiaries had been increased from 1,700 to 2,500, assuring that the scheme would not be compromised under his watch.
He further revealed ongoing plans for an economic empowerment programme targeting women in the region, alongside leadership training for ex-agitator leaders and other key stakeholders in the coming months.
Otuaro appealed for the support and cooperation of all stakeholders, reiterating that his focus remains on serving the people of the Niger Delta.
In their remarks, former ex-agitator leader Paul Eris, alias General Ogunboss, Bayelsa lawmaker Bony Ayah, alias General Don Inikio, and IYC President Jonathan Lokpobiri commended Otuaro’s leadership, describing his administration as one that has restored PAP’s essence to the people.
They also praised the efforts of the chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for his unwavering commitment to the Niger Delta cause.
Other notable figures present at the meeting included General Africa Ukparasia, General Pius, General Darikoro, Elaye Slaboh, National Chairman of the third phase, Iziri Lucky, alias General Lucky 7, and Hon. Gibson, among others.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
