Niger Delta
Timi Alaibe Calls for Unity in Supporting PAP’s Vision for a Prosperous Niger Delta
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has reaffirmed his dedication to revitalizing the programme and ensuring it delivers value to its beneficiaries. Otuaro made this commitment during a visit to former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Timi Alaibe, in Abuja over the weekend.
He emphasized that the PAP, established in 2009 by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, was originally intended to foster lasting peace and development in the Niger Delta, while empowering repentant militants. However, upon his appointment, Otuaro identified several gaps in the programme due to administrative lapses, prompting immediate action to restore its focus and effectiveness.
“I have been working hard with my team to redirect the programme and make it work for the main beneficiaries, as well as the people of impacted communities,” Otuaro stated.
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He highlighted that to realize his vision, he had engaged regularly with key stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, ex-agitators, and other influential figures, to exchange ideas and gain insights into the region’s challenges. Otuaro expressed satisfaction with the progress of his reforms, citing positive outcomes from these ongoing interactions.
In his remarks, Otuaro also praised Alaibe for his continued contributions to the peace and development of the Niger Delta, acknowledging him as one of the region’s most valuable assets.
For his part, Alaibe, who previously served as Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs and Coordinator of the PAP, lauded Otuaro’s efforts, particularly the recent deployment of 1,700 students to universities across Nigeria and the specialized maritime training programme. He assured Otuaro of his continued support, emphasizing that he could always count on him for consultation and collaboration aimed at advancing the interests of the Niger Delta people.
Alaibe also urged Otuaro to stay focused on his objectives and resist distractions from individuals with personal agendas who might seek to undermine the programme.
