…Says President Tinubu’s Support for Region is Tangible, Ongoing and will be sustained
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has urged former agitators in the Niger Delta to be vigilant and resist attempts by desperate politicians to incite unrest in the region ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dr. Otuaro issued the warning at the conclusion of a three-day strategic training on Leadership, Mediation, and Alternative Dispute Resolution, which was organised by PAP in partnership with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja, from July 30 to August 1, 2025.
Addressing participants during the certificate presentation ceremony, the PAP Administrator condemned what he described as the growing trend of “politically motivated propaganda” aimed at pitching beneficiaries of the amnesty programme against the Federal Government.
“Certain political actors are deliberately stoking tension and targeting our ex-agitator communities for their selfish interests. We must not allow ourselves to be used,” Otuaro cautioned.
The PAP boss emphasised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown unprecedented support for the programme, particularly in the areas of human capital development and empowerment.
“The President has not only expanded the programme’s budget, he has also ensured the appointment of Niger Deltans into strategic national positions. These are clear demonstrations of inclusion and goodwill,” he said.
Otuaro, who also hosted the participants to a reception at the PAP headquarters, charged them to embrace their roles as leaders and peace advocates within their respective communities.
“The focus must remain on peace, unity, and development. Any attempt to incite conflict or cause disaffection now would only reverse the gains we’ve made,” he added.
He stressed that the region must rise above manipulation and instead work in unity to consolidate the developmental strides made under the current administration.
“President Tinubu has proven to be a genuine friend of the Niger Delta. Let us reciprocate that commitment with loyalty and constructive engagement,” he said.
Also speaking to journalists shortly after the event, Mr. Igoniko Oduma, Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, reaffirmed Otuaro’s stance, describing the training initiative as part of ongoing efforts to equip stakeholders with leadership and peacebuilding skills.
“This is more than just a workshop; it is a proactive strategy to empower community influencers and promote stability ahead of what could be a politically sensitive season,” Oduma noted.
He further emphasized that PAP will continue to roll out programmes focused on rehabilitation, reintegration, and economic empowerment of former agitators and other stakeholders in the Niger Delta.
Dr. Otuaro concluded by calling on traditional rulers, youth leaders, and elders across the region to continue engaging with the youth and discouraging them from becoming tools in the hands of selfish political interests.
“Progress in the Niger Delta can only be sustained through dialogue, development, and a shared commitment to peace,” he said.
