Latest news on presidential amnesty programme

I'm assuming you're referring to the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) in Nigeria. Here's an update on the latest news:

Latest Developments:

1. Extension of Amnesty Programme: In October 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari extended the Presidential Amnesty Programme for another three years, effective from October 2020 to October 2023. This was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Professor Charles Quaker Dokubo.
2. Re-Integration of Ex-Fighters: The PAP has continued to re-integrate former militants into society through various initiatives, including education, skills acquisition, and entrepreneurship training. In 2020, the programme re-integrated over 1,000 ex-fighters into society.
3. Infrastructure Development: The PAP has also focused on infrastructure development in the Niger Delta region, including the construction of roads, bridges, and healthcare facilities. In 2020, the programme completed several projects, including the construction of a 10-kilometer road in Bayelsa State.
4. Youth Empowerment: The PAP has launched several youth empowerment initiatives, including the "Youth Empowerment and Skills Acquisition Programme" (YESAP). The programme aims to provide training and mentorship to young people in the Niger Delta region.

Challenges:

1. Funding: The PAP has faced funding challenges, which have hindered its ability to implement some of its programmes. In 2020, the programme received a budget allocation of N65 billion (approximately $170 million), which was considered inadequate by some stakeholders.
2. Security Concerns: Despite the amnesty programme, security concerns remain a major challenge in the Niger Delta region. Militant groups have continued to engage in illegal activities, including oil theft and kidnapping.
3. Corruption: There have been allegations of corruption within the PAP, including mismanagement of funds and embezzlement of resources. In 2020, the Nigerian government launched an investigation into allegations of corruption within the programme.

Key Quotes:

• "The extension of the Presidential Amnesty Programme is a testament to the government's commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region." - Professor Charles Quaker Dokubo, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs.
• "We are working to ensure that the programme is more effective and sustainable, and that it addresses the root causes of militancy in the Niger Delta region." - President Muhammadu Buhari.

I hope this update provides you with the latest information on the Presidential Amnesty Programme in Nigeria.