The Ijaw Youths Council Worldwide (IYC) has urged the Federal Government to increase funding for the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) to ensure its effectiveness in achieving lasting peace in the Niger Delta region. During a recent courtesy visit to the PAP administrator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, IYC President Jonathan Lokpobiri emphasized the need for enhanced financial resources amid the expanding scope of the program. He expressed concerns that the existing budget, which has not changed over the years, is inadequate given the programming needs of the region and the current economic realities facing Nigeria.
The IYC underscored the imperative for additional funds, citing a significant depreciation in the value of the Naira against the Dollar. When PAP was first initiated, the exchange rate was approximately N120 to $1; today, it stands at about N1,700 to $1. As the costs associated with running the programme continue to rise, the council believes it is crucial for the government to reassess and bolster the financial support allocated to PAP, which currently has a stagnant budget of N65 billion per year. The youth group articulated their appeal to President Bola Tinubu as well as the Ministers of Finance and Budget and Economic Planning, highlighting the necessity for increased appropriations to accommodate the evolving needs of the programme.
In their assessment, the IYC recognized the achievements of the PAP over the years but argued that sustaining its success is contingent upon aligning funding with contemporary economic conditions. They pointed out that the original financial framework no longer reflects the realities on the ground, as the requirements of the PAP have grown significantly, necessitating a critical review of its budgetary provisions. Moreover, the group stressed the link between adequate funding and continued stability in the Niger Delta, indicating that the current financial constraints could hamper progress in community reintegration and socio-economic development efforts.
Lokpobiri expressed appreciation for Otuaro’s leadership and his initiatives to re-engage the youth in the region through the PAP. He acknowledged the efforts made to reposition the program and foster inclusivity, which he believes have contributed to creating a sense of stability and shared ownership among the local populace. The IYC’s support for Otuaro’s agenda reflects their commitment to collaborative efforts toward addressing the underlying issues of unrest and dissatisfaction among the Ijaw youth, as well as promoting a shared vision for peace and development within the region.
In response, Dr. Dennis Otuaro reaffirmed his dedication to serving the people of the Niger Delta. He acknowledged the complexities of the challenges ahead and expressed confidence in the collective strength of the region’s stakeholders, including the Ijaw National Congress and women’s organizations. Otuaro conveyed that the PAP is currently focused on the reintegration phase of its objectives, which he described as pivotal for creating enduring peace and stability. His emphasis on stakeholder engagement underlines a collaborative approach, suggesting that a unified effort is essential for the successful implementation of the amnesty program and broader developmental goals.
Otuaro’s commitment to maintaining accountability and transparency within the PAP reinforces the belief that the programme is in capable hands. As he interacts with various groups, including the IYC, he aims to mobilize support for the transformative goals of the PAP. The leadership of both the Ijaw Youths Council and the PAP administrator reflects a mutual understanding of the crucial role each plays in the intricate dynamics of Niger Delta politics and community welfare. With a concerted push toward enhancing funding and stakeholder collaboration, both parties look forward to implementing effective strategies that would ultimately contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Niger Delta.
