“The Niger Delta Is Finally Reaping Democracy’s Rewards Under Tinubu” Amnesty Boss, Otuaro.

As Nigeria marked Democracy Day on June 12, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, who heads the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), shared a deeply reflective message. To him, June 12 isn’t just another date on the calendar. It’s the very foundation of Nigeria’s democratic journey a powerful reminder of what happens when citizens freely choose their leaders in fair and credible elections.

Otuaro took a moment to honor the late MKO Abiola and others who paid the ultimate price in the struggle for June 12. Their courage, he said, helped pave the way for the democracy Nigeria has enjoyed since 1999.

He also praised President Bola Tinubu for his genuine efforts to deepen democracy and open up space for everyday Nigerians to take part in shaping the nation’s future.

But what really stood in his message was this: the Niger Delta is finally seeing the fruits of democracy under Tinubu. According to Otuaro, the president’s strong backing of the amnesty programme has translated into tangible results expanded scholarships, more vocational training opportunities, and post.training support. He pointed out that over 8,235 students (undergraduate and postgraduate) are currently studying relevant courses in universities at home and abroad, thanks to the president’s unprecedented support.

Beyond education, Otuaro listed key development projects as proof of change: the Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway, the newly established South South Development Commission, the Federal University of Environment and Technology in Ogoniland, and the Nigeria Maritime University in Okerenkoko.

Yes, he admitted, insecurity remains a challenge. But he insisted that President Tinubu and the security agencies are working hard and need the cooperation of all citizens to overcome it.

Otuaro’s final message was to former agitators and young people in the region: protect the peace you have. Stand with the Tinubu administration, he urged, because the president has backed his promises with real action. And for sustained peace and development, Otuaro believes Tinubu deserves the region’s support come 2027.