The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has charged beneficiaries of the programme’s foreign postgraduate scholarship scheme to excel in their studies and uphold Nigeria’s image abroad.
Otuaro gave the charge on Thursday in Abuja during a pre-departure briefing for a new batch of 12 PAP-sponsored postgraduate scholars heading to universities in the United Kingdom.
According to a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Igoniko Oduma, the orientation session featured presentations on social and cultural relations in the UK, academic expectations, and scholarship administration. Each beneficiary was also presented with a laptop to support research and thesis work.
Addressing the scholars, Otuaro urged them not to disappoint President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government, and the Niger Delta, describing them as part of the enduring legacy of the PAP’s investment in human capital development.
He disclosed that President Tinubu and the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, are pleased with the number of beneficiaries already deployed overseas under the programme, contrary to speculation that the foreign scholarship component would be discontinued.
Otuaro said both the President and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, are deeply committed to the development of the Niger Delta through education and skills acquisition, and have continued to support PAP initiatives.
“Today, we are sending you to the United Kingdom for postgraduate studies, and we believe we are sending our best. There must be no room for laxity. Put in your best and make something meaningful of this opportunity,” he said.
He explained that the selection process was deliberately rigorous to prevent abuse of the system, adding that the courses of study were carefully chosen to align with industry needs and national development priorities.
“We don’t want anyone to abuse this opportunity under my watch. These programmes are industry-tailored, and I am confident that you will all do well,” Otuaro said.
He further assured the scholars that outstanding performance could earn continued academic support, including progression to doctoral studies where applicable.
“When you return, you are expected to contribute meaningfully to the development of the Niger Delta and the country. You are ambassadors of the President and of this programme,” he added.
Otuaro also reassured Niger Delta stakeholders of his administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability and the long-term interests of the region.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, some of the scholars, including Arafiena Shekinah Nkem of the University of Liverpool, MSc Project Management; and Omokaro Rick Efosa of Coventry University, MSc Supply Chain and Logistics Management; expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser and the PAP leadership for the opportunity.
They pledged to remain focused and excel in their studies in order to justify the confidence reposed in them.
