In a move aimed at empowering Niger Delta ex-agitators and promoting sustainable economic development, the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative—the N1.5 billion Cooperative Fund. The cooperative, known as the Presidential Amnesty Programme (Beneficiaries) Cooperative Society Limited (PAPCOSOL), will receive a monthly allocation of N500 million, marking a significant step towards directly supporting the ex-agitators.
At the official launch held at the Amnesty Office in Abuja, Maj. Gen. Barry Ndiomu (retd), the Interim Administrator of the PAP, hailed the scheme as a “novel alternative economic development program.” Its primary objective is to foster self-reliance among ex-agitators by creating sustainable livelihoods and promoting socio-economic development within their communities.
Ndiomu acknowledged that previous reintegration empowerment initiatives had fallen short of delivering satisfactory outcomes. However, he expressed confidence that the cooperative approach would be the most effective means of ensuring the long-term reintegration of ex-agitators into society.
The Interim Administrator emphasized that the monthly N500 million allocation was intended to encourage ex-agitators, who were gradually aging, to explore more sustainable avenues for income generation beyond relying solely on the N65,000 monthly stipend provided by the Federal Government. To ensure effective management, the PAP Office will closely supervise the cooperative, which already has offices in Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.
A distinguished Advisory Board, headed by retired Supreme Court Justice Francis Tabai, alongside seasoned professionals and ex-agitators, will oversee the operations of the cooperative. Justice Tabai expressed his appreciation for the Interim Administrator’s commitment to transforming the Presidential Amnesty Programme and improving the lives of Niger Deltans. He pledged to leverage his vast experience to ensure the Board fulfills its mandate effectively.
Under the scheme, beneficiaries will receive technical support for their business ideas and gain access to grants. The cooperative’s primary focus areas will encompass the agricultural value chain, services, and manufacturing sectors, opening up diverse opportunities for ex-agitators to develop sustainable enterprises.