One of the leading socio-cultural organisations in the Niger Delta, Ijaw Youth Network (IYN) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) Administrator, Chief. Dennis Bruto Otuaro Ph.D, for their unwavering commitment to advancing development in the Niger Delta.
In a statement signed by the Socio-Cultural Organisation, President Frank Ebikabo and Secretary Federal Ebiaridor, the group praised the recent award of scholarships to over 1,700 students from the region, describing it as a milestone in the region’s progress.
They hailed President Tinubu’s decision to retain the PAP and the appointment of Dr. Otuaro as its administrator, a move they described as visionary and instrumental in fostering peace and progress in the Niger Delta.
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The IYN leaders highlighted Dr. Otuaro’s efforts in ensuring transparency and fairness of the scholarship exercise, which they believe reflects a genuine commitment to addressing key issues in the region.
“President Tinubu has shown exceptional foresight by not only sustaining the Presidential Amnesty Programme, but also entrusting its leadership to Dr. Otuaro, an accomplished administrator whose leadership is yielding tangible results,” the statement read.
The group emphasised the groundbreaking nature of the scholarship scheme, which includes provisions for overseas master’s degree programs, as well as comprehensive support covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
“The scale and integrity of this initiative address core challenges in our region,” they said, adding that similar dedication from past administrations might have averted youth festiveness in the Niger Delta.
Recall that, the Presidential Amnesty Programme recently awarded scholarships to 1,700 students for studies in local and international institutions, marking the highest number of beneficiaries in the program’s history.
The IYN also pointed to other notable achievements under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, such as sending four Niger Delta indigenes to South Africa for specialised aviation training and training 98 youths in maritime skills at the Joemarine Institute of Nautical Studies and Research.
“Dr. Otuaro understands the deep-seated grievances of our region and is addressing them through carefully designed initiatives,” Ebikabo and Ebiaridor remarked.
While acknowledging these successes, the IYN urged President Tinubu to increase funding for the PAP to expand its impacts and pursue sustainable development.
“Additional funding would enable the programme to reach more beneficiaries and create lasting solutions for the Niger Delta’s challenges,” they appealed.
The group concluded by reiterating their support for President Tinubu’s administration and Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, pledging to collaborate with the federal government to ensure sustained peace and development in the region.
