Presidential Amnesty Program Administrator Addresses Successes, Challenges, and Crude Oil Theft

In a recent interview with newsmen, retired Major General Barry Ndiomu, the interim administrator of Nigeria’s presidential amnesty program, shed light on the program’s journey since its inception in 2009.

General Ndiomu discussed the successes achieved in rehabilitating over 30,000 ex-agitators in the Niger Delta region, highlighting the program’s role in fostering peace and stability.

However, Ndiomu also acknowledged persistent challenges facing the program, including the incomplete construction of vocational training centers intended to equip youths with skills for employment in the oil industry.

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Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the program’s potential to address socio-economic issues in the region.

Furthermore, Ndiomu delved into the complex issue of crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, emphasizing the involvement of sophisticated criminal networks rather than ex-agitators. He underscored the government’s efforts to combat oil theft through surveillance and proposed strategies for its eradication.

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Additionally, Ndiomu highlighted the success of the Presidential Amnesty Cooperative Scheme in empowering ex-agitators through entrepreneurship. He emphasized the importance of vocational training and job creation initiatives in preventing the resurgence of armed agitation in the region.

Overall, General Ndiomu’s insights provided valuable perspectives on the presidential amnesty program’s achievements, ongoing challenges, and efforts to promote peace and development in the Niger Delta.