Niger Delta Ex-agitators Applaud Reforms in Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP)

In a show of appreciation for the ongoing reforms within the Presidential Amnesty Program (PAP), leaders of Niger Delta ex-agitators have commended the efforts of Major General Barry Ndiomu (Rtd) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The accolades were given during an interactive session organized by the PAP for leaders of PAP Phase Two in Calabar.

During the session, various leaders expressed their satisfaction with the direction of the program, emphasizing the importance of sustaining initiatives such as the scholarship program and the recently introduced Cooperative scheme.

Ibena Rufus, spokesperson for the Ex-agitators leaders’ forum and a beneficiary of PAP Phase Two, praised the significant progress made under the current tenure of Major General Barry Tariye Ndiomu. He particularly highlighted the effective approach taken towards reintegration, an area that posed challenges in the past.

Rufus remarked, “Previous administrators struggled with reintegration, but the current administrator has shown remarkable capacity and determination in addressing it.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Olutu Wanemi, Chairman of PAP Phase Two, lauded the introduction of the Cooperative Initiative, noting that it represents a paradigm shift in empowering beneficiaries. He appealed for the reappointment of the current Interim Administrator, emphasizing the positive impact of his leadership.

Corinne Hart, another delegate, echoed the sentiments of progress, citing the significant improvement in program management and the resultant peace in the region.

In response, Major General Barry Tariye Ndiomu (Rtd), the Interim Administrator of the Program, highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement for program enhancement. He underscored the aim of the program to uplift the Niger Delta region through various reform interventions.

Representing Major General Ndiomu, Major Marshall Akpor reiterated the commitment of PAP to soliciting feedback from stakeholders to further improve the program. He emphasized the role of initiatives such as the Presidential Amnesty Cooperative Society Limited in providing alternative livelihoods and ensuring transparency in scholarship distribution.

Wilfred Musa, Head of the Reintegration program at PAP, provided insights into the success of the scholarship scheme, highlighting the significant number of beneficiaries who have graduated and secured employment opportunities.

The collective sentiment expressed during the interactive session underscores the positive impact of reforms in the PAP, signaling a step towards sustainable peace and development in the Niger Delta region.