Christmas: Otuaro Reaffirms Commitment to Peace, Unity and Development in Niger Delta
ABUJA. The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Burutu Otuaro, has urged the people of the Niger Delta to sustain peace and unity, describing them as critical pillars for sustainable development in the region.
Otuaro, in his Christmas goodwill message, also commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for its unwavering support for the Presidential Amnesty Programme, noting that such support has continued to strengthen peace and stability in the oil-producing region.
The PAP Administrator, in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Igoniko Oduma, specifically acknowledged the contributions of the National Chairman of the Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme, General Elaye ThankGod Dollar Slaboh, for his leadership, coordination and grassroots engagement in advancing the objectives of the programme.
According to Otuaro, the synergy between the PAP management and the leadership of the Third Phase, under General Slaboh, has contributed significantly to improved peace-building, unity among beneficiaries and enhanced programme outcomes across the Niger Delta.
He also thanked traditional rulers, stakeholders, ex-agitators, youths and host communities for their continued cooperation and support, stressing that the peace currently enjoyed in the region must be protected through dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect.
“Peace and unity remain the strongest foundations for sustainable development. We must continue to reject violence and embrace dialogue and cooperation as we collectively work for the progress of our region,” Otuaro said.
The PAP Administrator disclosed that the programme recorded notable milestones in 2025, including improved welfare for beneficiaries, expanded educational and vocational training opportunities, and strengthened reintegration processes aimed at empowering Niger Delta youths to contribute meaningfully to society.
He attributed these achievements to the visionary leadership of President Tinubu and the strategic oversight of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), which provides institutional guidance for the effective implementation of the programme.
Reflecting on the significance of Christmas, Otuaro described the season as one that symbolizes love, sacrifice, compassion and reconciliation, values he said align with the communal culture and shared heritage of the Niger Delta people.
He urged beneficiaries of the Amnesty Programme and residents of the region to celebrate the festive season with moderation and a renewed sense of responsibility to their communities.
Otuaro expressed optimism that the New Year would usher in greater peace, unity and development for the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
“With sustained unity, peace and collaboration, the Niger Delta will record even greater progress. I wish our people a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” he added.
