The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has called on the Federal Government to increase the funding allocated to the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) to ensure it achieves sustainable peace in the Niger Delta.
The appeal was made by IYC President, Jonathan Lokpobiri, during a media briefing in Abuja. Lokpobiri spoke after leading a delegation from the council on a courtesy visit to the PAP Administrator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro.
In a statement signed by IYC spokesperson, Princewill Binebai, the council highlighted that the programme’s scope has expanded over the years, necessitating a budget review to meet new demands. According to the statement, the budget has remained unchanged for years, despite significant shifts in economic conditions and the challenges facing the Niger Delta region.
“The Presidential Amnesty Programme was initiated when the exchange rate stood at N120 per dollar, but it is now around N1,700,” the statement noted. “Despite these changes, the PAP’s annual budget remains N65 billion, which limits its ability to meet the evolving needs of the programme.”
The IYC emphasized that the PAP plays a critical role in stabilizing the Niger Delta and stressed that additional funding is essential to sustain peace in the region. The group urged President Bola Tinubu, the Ministers of Finance and Budget, and the leadership of the National Assembly to collaborate in expanding the programme’s budget.
“As the Ijaw Youth Council, we have assessed the remarkable achievements of the PAP over the years,” the statement continued. “However, the funding challenges now threaten its effectiveness. Expanding the programme to include more beneficiaries at this time is crucial, as a stable Niger Delta benefits the entire country.”
Lokpobiri commended Dr. Otuaro for his inclusive leadership and efforts to reposition the programme, which have contributed to regional stability. He assured the PAP administrator of IYC’s support, noting that the programme’s success is vital to the Niger Delta’s peace.
In response, Otuaro reaffirmed his commitment to driving the reintegration phase of the amnesty initiative, a critical step in achieving the programme’s goals. He acknowledged the importance of working closely with stakeholders, including the IYC, to ensure sustainable peace in the region.
“When I assumed office, I understood the challenges ahead,” Otuaro said. “This programme is about serving our people, and I am committed to ensuring it remains in good hands. We will continue to engage stakeholders meaningfully to achieve our objectives.”
The IYC’s call underscores the need for increased government investment in the PAP to accommodate the region’s evolving needs and maintain stability in the Niger Delta.
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