The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), an initiative designed to foster peace and stability in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, has received significant backing from President Bola Tinubu. Administrator of the programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, expressed profound gratitude for the president’s “tremendous” support, emphasizing Tinubu’s commitment to the region’s peacebuilding efforts. Otuaro, speaking at a leadership training workshop organized by the PAP in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, underscored the importance of the president’s support in achieving sustainable peace, security, and socio-economic advancement in the Niger Delta. This presidential backing signals a strong commitment to ensuring a brighter future for the region, often plagued by unrest and conflict stemming from grievances related to resource control and environmental degradation.
The training workshop, focused on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and media engagement, aims to equip PAP stakeholders with the necessary skills to serve as effective mediators and peace ambassadors within their communities. Otuaro stressed the crucial role these individuals play in the peacebuilding process, urging them to leverage their training to contribute to sustainable peace in the Niger Delta. He highlighted the importance of supporting President Tinubu’s vision by actively working towards peace and stability in the region. The training underscores the PAP’s strategic approach to conflict resolution, recognizing the importance of local involvement and capacity building in achieving lasting peace. By empowering individuals within the communities, the programme seeks to create a network of peacebuilders who can address conflicts at the grassroots level.
Beyond acknowledging President Tinubu’s support, Otuaro also commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his significant contributions to the programme. Ribadu’s involvement, characterized by “tireless efforts” and valuable interventions, has been instrumental in furthering the PAP’s objectives. This collaboration between the PAP and the Office of the National Security Adviser showcases a concerted effort to address the root causes of conflict in the Niger Delta and create a more secure environment for development. It also highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach to peacebuilding, incorporating both community engagement and high-level security strategies.
Otuaro further emphasized the PAP’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly regarding the empowerment of women in the region. Recognizing that women are often disproportionately affected by conflict, Otuaro underscored the need to address their specific needs and empower them to become active participants in the peacebuilding process. This focus on gender inclusivity reflects a broader understanding of the complexities of conflict and the importance of engaging all segments of society in the pursuit of peace. By providing opportunities for women to participate in leadership roles and peacebuilding initiatives, the PAP aims to create a more equitable and sustainable peace.
The three-day training program covered a range of topics designed to enhance the participants’ capacity to manage conflict effectively. These included alternative dispute resolution techniques, communication skills, and media engagement strategies. By equipping stakeholders with these tools, the PAP seeks to enhance their ability to prevent, manage, and resolve conflicts peacefully within their communities. The focus on media engagement also highlights the importance of effective communication in shaping public perceptions and promoting peace narratives. Participants are trained to interact with the media responsibly and use communication platforms to foster dialogue and understanding.
In closing, Dr. Otuaro urged all participants to actively engage with the training, absorb the lessons, and apply the acquired knowledge in their roles as peace ambassadors. He emphasized the importance of their continued commitment to the peace process and their role in supporting President Tinubu’s vision for a stable and prosperous Niger Delta. The success of the PAP hinges on the active participation of community stakeholders who are equipped to navigate the complexities of conflict and contribute to building a more peaceful future for the region. By investing in their capacity and empowering them to become agents of change, the PAP aims to create a ripple effect of positive impact throughout the Niger Delta.
