PAP Expands Stakeholder Engagement with Niger Delta Monarchs

Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs and Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Program (PAP), Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, met with traditional rulers in Warri, Delta State, on Monday to enhance stakeholder engagement and discuss ongoing reforms focused on stability in the Niger Delta.

The meeting, which was titled ‘Working Together for Sustainable Peace, Security, Stability; A Panacea for Growth and Development in the Niger Delta,’ sought to strengthen stakeholder engagement and address ongoing reforms. Otuaro acknowledged the crucial role of traditional rulers in the amnesty program and expressed his appreciation for their continued support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He outlined various program initiatives, including educational scholarships and vocational training, and expressed the goal of expanding the program to include more beneficiaries from the region.

He also spoke about ongoing efforts to disarm militia groups and bring affected youths into the amnesty program, aimed at maintaining peace in the Niger Delta region. During the interactive session, Pere SP. Luke Kalanama VIII of Akugbene Mein-Kingdom praised Dr. Otuaro’s achievements in reforming the program, particularly in education and rehabilitation. He expressed confidence in Otuaro’s leadership and prayed for his continued success.

HRM King Joseph Timiyan, Ibenanaowei of Ogulagha Kingdom and Chairman of the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Council, also commended Otuaro as one of the most effective coordinators since the program’s inception, reaffirming his support for the Administrator’s objectives.

On his part, HRM Justice FF Tabai, Ibenanaowei of Tuomo Kingdom, urged him to prioritize educational initiatives within the amnesty program. He also advocated for greater involvement of traditional rulers in its activities.