Ijaw Youth Network backs Otuaro, hails PAP scholarship expansion

The Ijaw Youth Network (IYN) has urged the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, to remain focused on implementing reforms despite criticism, while commending President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for supporting the programme’s expansion.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its President, Frank Ebikabo, and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, the group praised the administration for what it described as unprecedented scholarship and skills development initiatives for beneficiaries of the amnesty programme.

The IYN said Otuaro had expanded educational and vocational opportunities for delegates, noting that more than 9,000 Niger Delta youths had received scholarships to study in Nigerian universities, while 273 others had been sponsored for studies abroad since he assumed office in March 2024.

The group also commended the programme for recording over 50 first-class and 40 second-class upper degree graduates within the past two academic sessions.

According to the IYN, the PAP has also strengthened capacity-building through the training of four pilot cadets, two instrument rating trainees in South Africa, 40 aviation cadets in Lagos and 98 maritime cadets in Delta State.

It added that 360 delegates and stakeholders had also undergone training in alternative dispute resolution and mediation as part of efforts to sustain peace in the Niger Delta.

The group described the reforms as evidence of Otuaro’s commitment to human capital development, socio-economic growth and peacebuilding in the region, urging him not to be distracted by critics.

The IYN further commended the prompt payment of monthly stipends to programme delegates, describing the process as more transparent and efficient than in previous years.

It also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the Office of the National Security Adviser for their support, saying the backing had enabled the implementation of reforms aimed at improving service delivery and the overall impact of the Presidential Amnesty Programme in the Niger Delta.