The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, has thrown its weight behind the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, passing a vote of confidence on his leadership and reforms that have repositioned the programme for greater impact in the Niger Delta.
In a statement by the Chairman, Comrade Nicholas Igarama; Secretary, Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo, Esq; and Information Officer, Comrade Tare Magbei, the IYC praised Dr. Otuaro for bringing “renewed focus, professionalism and accountability” to the Amnesty Programme since taking office in March 2024.
The group said Otuaro’s leadership has been marked by clear milestones in institutional reform, education, vocational empowerment, stakeholder engagement and integrity-driven governance, all geared toward sustainable peace and human capital development in the region.
Highlighting his achievements, the IYC noted that under Dr. Otuaro, the Amnesty Programme had undergone comprehensive data verification and system upgrades to eliminate duplication, strengthen transparency and safeguard beneficiary records.
It also lauded the expansion of the PAP scholarship scheme to cover more onshore and offshore institutions, ensuring higher academic standards and broader access for deserving beneficiaries across the Niger Delta.
According to the Council, Dr. Otuaro’s focus on skills acquisition has introduced advanced technical and vocational training in key sectors such as maritime, aviation and entrepreneurship — creating opportunities for youths to become self-reliant and employable.
The IYC Western Zone further applauded Otuaro’s consistent engagement with traditional rulers, ex-agitators, youth leaders and community representatives, which it said has deepened peace and unity across the oil-rich region.
“We commend Dr. Otuaro for his calm disposition, his unwavering dedication to Ijaw aspirations, and his sustained efforts in building a stronger and more inclusive Niger Delta.
“His focus on human capital development, peace-building, and regional progress aligns with the collective vision of our people,” the group stated.
The IYC Western Zone further condemned “sponsored attacks and false narratives” against Dr. Otuaro, describing such moves as “distractions rooted in envy and resistance to reform.”
Reaffirming its confidence in his leadership, the Council urged Dr. Otuaro to remain steadfast and forward-looking in the discharge of his duties.
“Keep working. Keep building. Keep leading. The Ijaw Nation stands solidly behind you,” the statement concluded.
