The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strong backing of the programme’s peacebuilding efforts in the Niger Delta.
Speaking during the opening of a three-day workshop in Abuja on Wednesday, Otuaro said the president’s continued support shows his commitment to national peace, stability, and socio-economic development.
The workshop, which is the second batch of the Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Mediation Training, is being held in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre. The first session took place from July 16 to July 18, 2025, at the same venue.
Dr Otuaro said, “I am very grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for believing in the peacebuilding initiative undertaken by the PAP in our villages and communities in the Niger Delta. Mr President’s support has been tremendous, and it shows his profound commitment and dedication to peace, stability and security for the accelerated development and socio-economic advancement in our region.”
He noted that President Tinubu’s involvement in the peace process reflects his genuine concern for the long-term development of the oil-rich region. “A better tomorrow for our region must be secured today through a deliberate peace process that is massively supported by the President,” Otuaro added.
Addressing the participants at the training, Otuaro described them as key stakeholders and partners in sustaining peace in the region. He explained that the workshop was specially designed to strengthen their leadership and mediation skills, enabling them to serve as peace ambassadors in their communities.
He urged all participants to stay focused during the sessions, adding that the knowledge they gain will be crucial in their roles.
“As stakeholders of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, you are worthy ambassadors in the peacebuilding project in our region, and I want you to know that we all have a responsibility to also support Mr President by working assiduously for sustainable peace in and around our communities,” he said.
The PAP administrator also appreciated the Office of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his vital role in the implementation of the programme’s objectives. He stated, “We are thankful for his tireless efforts at providing valuable inputs and interventions.”
Reaffirming his dedication to an inclusive peace process, Otuaro assured Niger Delta residents that his leadership will prioritize the empowerment of women, recognising that they too were affected by past conflicts. “Plans are ongoing to empower the region’s women because they were also casualties in the struggle,” he stated.
He concluded by encouraging all participants to take the training seriously and avoid distractions, stressing the importance of the knowledge to be gained in their efforts to maintain peace and support national development.
