The Ijaw Youth Consultative Forum, IYCF, has commended the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, under the leadership of Chief Dennis Otuaro, PhD, for its achievements in the past year, describing it as a game-changer in the Niger Delta.
In a statement by Chief Executive Officer of Ijaw Youth Consultative Forum, High Chief Comrade Preye Raphael Ebizimor, marking Otuaro’s first anniversary as PAP Administrator, IYCF said his leadership had transformed the programme from a mere stipend-based initiative into a platform for real economic empowerment, vocational training, and peace-building.
Tangible Impact on Aviation, Maritime Sectors
The group highlighted several achievements under Otuaro, including the deployment of 40 Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) for training, with 37 of them placed in top aviation firms like Aero Contractors and 7 Star Global Hangar. Four cadet pilots also completed their type-rating training in South Africa, while two advanced to specialized training at Caverton Helicopters, Lagos.
In the maritime sector, 98 cadets were trained and deployed, including 88 for sea-time training and 10 for Officer of the Watch certification. A refresher course was also conducted in Delta State to sharpen their skills before reintegration into the industry.
Scholarships, Stakeholder Engagements Boost Reintegration
IYCF also praised PAP’s education interventions, noting that over 2,500 students were awarded scholarships in the 2024/2025 academic session, both within and outside Nigeria. The group further acknowledged the graduation of 397 students last year, a significant step in strengthening human capital development in the region.
To sustain peace, PAP held a series of stakeholder engagements, including a four-day summit that addressed stipend increments, economic programs, and inclusivity concerns. The meetings played a key role in preventing an October 1 protest, as traditional rulers, women leaders, and ex-agitator groups were brought to the table for dialogue.
Security, Economic Partnerships Strengthened
Under Otuaro’s leadership, PAP intensified collaboration with national and international bodies to enhance security and economic growth. A key partnership with Defence Headquarters helped in tackling oil theft, boosting Nigeria’s oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.
The programme also worked with the Federal Civil Service Commission to create employment pathways for ex-agitators, ensuring they transition from training into jobs. Additionally, a partnership with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) was established to curb security threats in the region.
Shifting from Stipends to Sustainable Development
Reflecting on his one year in office, Otuaro emphasized PAP’s shift from a stipend-dependent system to one that prioritizes vocational training and economic sustainability. He commended security efforts led by Tantita Security Services and called for more collaboration among stakeholders to maintain peace and development in the Niger Delta.
IYCF said the impact of Otuaro’s leadership was already evident and urged all stakeholders to continue supporting his efforts to drive long-term stability and prosperity in the region.
