Otuaro Charges 12 PAP Scholars to Excel in UK Studies and Contribute to National Development
Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has issued a strong charge to beneficiaries of the programme's foreign post-graduate scholarship, urging them to justify the Federal Government's substantial investment in their education. He emphasized that they must excel in their studies and contribute meaningfully to national development upon their return to Nigeria.
Pre-Departure Briefing in Abuja Sets Expectations
Otuaro delivered this message during a comprehensive pre-departure briefing held on Thursday for 12 PAP foreign post-graduate scholarship beneficiaries who are bound for universities across the United Kingdom. The briefing took place at the PAP headquarters in Abuja and covered multiple critical areas to prepare the scholars for their academic journey abroad.
The sessions included detailed discussions on social and cultural relations in the UK, clear academic expectations, scholarship administration protocols, and practical support measures. As part of this preparation, laptops were presented to each scholar to facilitate their research and thesis work, ensuring they have the necessary tools for success.
High-Level Government Attention on Scholarship Outcomes
Otuaro highlighted that these beneficiaries are being sent abroad at a time when President Bola Tinubu and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) are paying particularly close attention to the outcomes of the programme's foreign scholarship component. "Today, we are sending you outside the country for post-graduate programmes in the United Kingdom and we believe that we are sending out our best," Otuaro stated.
He continued with a firm directive: "There should be no room for laxity, put in your best and make the best for yourselves. We are careful in the selection process because we don't want anybody to abuse the system under my watch." This underscores the rigorous standards applied to the selection and the high expectations placed on the scholars.
Sustained and Expanded Scholarship Initiative Under Current Administration
Addressing misconceptions, Otuaro noted that some observers had assumed foreign scholarship deployments under the PAP had ended. However, he clarified that the current administration has not only sustained but expanded this initiative. "We give credit to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. Some people had thought that foreign scholarships deployments would no longer be possible, but the President likes what we have been doing since we started giving out foreign scholarships to beneficiaries," he explained.
He further emphasized the strong backing from the Office of the National Security Adviser, which supervises the PAP. "Also, the Office of the National Security Adviser that supervises this Programme and the NSA himself, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu appreciate it. That is the feedback we are getting. They are working tirelessly to promote the socio-economic and political advancement of the Niger Delta and indeed Nigeria," Otuaro added.
Warning Against Disappointing Stakeholders and Future Opportunities
Otuaro issued a stern warning to the scholars against any actions that could undermine the confidence placed in them by the Federal Government and stakeholders in the Niger Delta. "So I don't want you to disappoint the President over what he is so happy about. Don't disappoint the Presidential Amnesty Programme and the Niger Delta because stakeholders also believe that what we are doing – awarding scholarships to qualified beneficiaries – is the best because the legacy will manifest in some years to come," he cautioned.
He detailed that the selected courses were deliberately chosen to align with industry needs and development priorities. "When you conclude your programmes and return home, you will also contribute your quota to the development of the region and the country. So, I want you to do well in your studies. We deliberately selected the programmes of study; they are industry-tailored. I am confident that all of you will do well," Otuaro assured.
Potential for Continued Academic Support and Reassurance of Transparency
Otuaro further stated that strong academic performance could open doors for continued support, including opportunities for PhD studies. "We will continue to work hard to ensure that we build critical manpower for the Niger Delta and the nation. When you do well, others will be encouraged, the President and the NSA will also be encouraged. You are ambassadors of the President. Everyone in the Niger Delta knows that the President and the NSA are strongly supporting this Programme," he said.
"For those of you who are going for MSc, if you do well and qualify for PhD, there is nothing stopping us from supporting your academic progress. Work hard and be diligent," he added, highlighting the programme's commitment to long-term educational advancement.
He also reassured Niger Delta stakeholders of his administration's unwavering commitment to transparency and decisions taken in the best interest of the region and the country, reinforcing trust in the programme's management.
Beneficiaries Express Gratitude and Pledge Dedication
Some of the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the opportunity. Arafiena Shekinah Nkem, who will study MSc Project Management at the University of Liverpool, and Omokaro Rick Efosa, admitted for MSc Supply Chain and Logistics Management at Coventry University, thanked President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, and the PAP leadership. They pledged to apply themselves fully to their studies, demonstrating their commitment to making the most of this educational opportunity.
