The presidential amnesty office in Abuja on Friday commenced the payment of outstanding stipends to ex-militants in the Niger Delta region and beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

This followed the approval by President Muhammadu Buhari for the commencement of payment of the stipends and allowances to the beneficiaries.

In a statement, Head of Media and Communication, Daniel Alabrah, said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Fridaycommenced the payment with May outstanding stipend of N65, 000 per beneficiary.

The statement said that the outstanding stipends would be paid in batches.

“We have commenced payment with the outstanding May 2015 stipends. That of June and July will be paid afterwards.

“The outstanding allowances and school/training fees of beneficiaries will be cleared at the end of the ongoing verification of genuine claims.

“Hopefully, the other payments will commence soon, once the verification team concludes its exercise,’’ it said.

Paul Boroh, who is the coordinator of the amnesty programme, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that “Mr. President has by his approval demonstrated his commitment to strengthen amnesty programme’’.

“It is heart-warming that he graciously approves funds so as to quickly resolve the issues that have affected the smooth running of the programme.

“Now, beneficiaries whose training or studies have been affected can look forward to resuming their studies sooner than later.

“We are committed to a quick resolution of all outstanding issues, including the training fees,” Mr. Boroh assured.

Mr. Boroh was appointed July 28.

On assumption of office, the new special adviser immediately set up a seven-man committee to undertake a verification of claims.

(NAN)