On September 5, 2024, High Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), held a meeting with Pentaglo Nig Limited, a group actively working to curb substance abuse among youths in the Niger Delta. The organization, led by renowned Niger Delta humanitarian Mr. Seisingha Pondi, commonly known as “Soso,” expressed concern over the alarming increase in drug use among the region’s youth.
Mr. Soso highlighted the primary purpose of their visit: to seek a partnership with the Presidential Amnesty Office in establishing a rehabilitation program aimed at helping young people recover from substance abuse and reintegrate into society.
In response, Dr. Otuaro praised the group for their commendable efforts, emphasizing the importance of national support for this initiative, not just within the Niger Delta. He noted that the rehabilitation and reintegration of youths previously involved in violent activities is a core mission of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, aligning with the goals of Pentaglo Nig Limited.
Dr. Otuaro stressed the urgency of the group’s initiative, especially in the face of rising youth addiction to harmful substances such as cocaine, heroin, cannabis, Tramadol, and other illicit drugs. He warned that failure to address this growing issue could further damage the lives of many young people, who represent the future of Nigeria and the Niger Delta region.
He assured the group of the PAP’s full support in combating the youth drug culture, which has led to widespread mental health challenges and a loss of direction for many young individuals.
