The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dennis Otuaro, has urged youths in the Niger Delta to promote peace, unity, and shared vigilance for the region’s progress, as the Ijaw Nation marked this year’s Boro Day celebration.
Speaking at the event held on Saturday to honour the legacy of late Ijaw freedom fighter, Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, Otuaro stressed the need for intellectual engagement and active participation in governance as modern tools for advocating resource control.
He said, “Today, we are not just remembering Boro as a hero of the past; we are celebrating him as a founding father of the Ijaw Nation, whose spirit continues to guide us.
“He laid the foundation for our quest for justice. Our elders fought differently, but in today’s world, we must pursue our struggle through intellect, unity, and peace.”
Representing the Federal Government, Otuaro delivered goodwill messages from President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, and stakeholders in the Amnesty Programme, assuring that the initiative would become more inclusive.
“Peace in our communities translates to peace across the region. I appeal to our youth, kingdoms and clans to uphold and protect this peace.
“We must love one another—and extend that love to our neighbours. Let us remain united, vigilant, and committed to sustaining the calm we currently enjoy,” he added.
Reflecting on his first year in office, Otuaro revealed plans to expand the scope of the Amnesty Programme to include more beneficiaries.
“We currently have 30,000 people in the database, but this is not just about numbers. I am a product of the Niger Delta struggle and understand what this programme means to our people, especially our women and children. The goal is to ensure no one is left behind.
“This programme does not belong to a select few or to those driven by greed. It belongs to the people. I remain focused on my mandate and will not be distracted by those who feel entitled.”
Addressing criticism of his leadership, Otuaro dismissed such remarks as blackmail, asserting that the programme under his watch would not be hijacked by personal interests.
