National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Chuks Peter, DELTA
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a comprehensive revamp of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) in the Niger Delta, promising substantial improvements in the educational and vocational training provided to its beneficiaries.
During a consultative and interactive meeting on peace, security, and development in the region, President Tinubu, represented by Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Special Adviser on Niger Delta Affairs and PAP Coordinator, committed to expanding the programme beyond the N65,000 monthly stipend currently provided.
“I will ensure the programme goes beyond mere monthly payments,” Otuaro stated.
“With the President’s support, I will align the programme with the original goals and vision set by its initiator, the late President Musa Yar’Adua.”
Otuaro highlighted the need for unity and collaboration to enhance the impact of PAP, which has been crucial in promoting peace and development in the Niger Delta.
Plans for foreign scholarships, skill acquisition, extensive training, and empowerment for those already trained were discussed.
Addressing the irregularities within the current system, Otuaro stressed the importance of equitable distribution of the programme’s benefits to all eligible participants.
“If we can sustain this peace and generate innovative ideas, I am confident we can present a compelling case to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to align the programme’s blueprint with his developmental agenda,” Otuaro added.
He assured attendees of President Tinubu’s dedication to the Niger Delta’s development and expressed belief that with the President’s backing, the Amnesty Programme can achieve unprecedented success.
He called for unity among stakeholders, urging them to avoid divisive actions and to communicate any genuine concerns directly to him.
Also, Otuaro announced plans to engage with key stakeholders who are not currently benefiting from the Amnesty Programme.
This initiative aims to include them in the development process through frameworks similar to PACOSOL, ensuring benefits for all beneficiaries.
The proposed changes to PAP focus on inclusive development and empowerment, aiming to correct existing disparities and provide comprehensive support to beneficiaries.
By enhancing educational and vocational opportunities, the program seeks to build a more sustainable and peaceful future for the Niger Delta region.
