Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has officially inaugurated the Delta State Security Trust Fund, reaffirming his government’s determination to enhance security through a public-private partnership model designed to foster peace and attract investment across the state.
The relaunch, held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Asaba, brought together influential figures from both the public and private sectors, including business moguls, traditional leaders, and top security officials. Notable attendees were the Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, who chaired the event; Zenith Bank Founder, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, as Special Guest of Honour; and High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, represented by Chief Keston Pondi, who made a historic ₦10 billion donation as Chief Launcher.
Governor Oborevwori explained that although the Fund was originally established by law in 2013, his administration is repositioning it to mobilize private sector contributions to complement government investment in security infrastructure.
According to the governor, the Fund will focus on procurement of surveillance gadgets, operational vehicles, communication systems, and continuous training of both formal and community-based security personnel across the state’s 25 local government areas.
“Security is everyone’s concern, not just the government’s,” Oborevwori declared. “Without safety, there can be no progress. Businesses cannot thrive, and investors will be hesitant. This Fund symbolises our joint resolve to sustain peace, safety, and economic growth.”
Highlighting key achievements, the governor revealed that Operation Delta Hawk has been restructured and renamed Operation Delta Sweep, a multi-agency task force involving the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps. He credited this collaboration with helping recover illegal weapons and improve general safety across communities.
Oborevwori further stressed that his administration is addressing the root causes of insecurity through youth empowerment, agricultural initiatives, and infrastructure development—all aimed at creating jobs and strengthening social stability.
“True and lasting peace is possible when citizens, especially the youth and women, are actively involved in economic development,” he said.
He also revealed that 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) will be dedicated monthly to the Security Trust Fund, assuring donors of transparency and accountability.
“What you contribute today is not merely a donation—it is an investment in Delta’s peace and prosperity,” he affirmed.
Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, commended the initiative as a turning point in Delta’s developmental journey, lauding the governor’s practical approach to governance.
“While many talk, our governor delivers,” Aig-Imoukhuede stated, pledging ₦100 million from himself and his wife, Ofure Aig-Imoukhuede. He expressed optimism that the fund could attract ₦100 billion by 2025, describing the launch as “the beginning of a journey toward a safer, stronger Delta.”
Mr. Jim Ovia, Founder of Zenith Bank, echoed similar sentiments, calling the initiative a visionary step toward inclusive security management. He reaffirmed the bank’s continued partnership with the state, noting that “security remains the bedrock of peace, prosperity, and business confidence.”
Representing High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, Chief Keston Pondi said the ₦10 billion donation from Tantita Security Services reflects the company’s commitment to safeguarding the state’s peace and progress.
“This is more than a financial contribution—it is a strategic investment in Delta’s stability,” Pondi remarked.
Delivering the keynote address, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Marvel Akpoyibo, applauded Delta’s infrastructure upgrades—particularly its road networks—as crucial to improved safety and connectivity. He emphasized the need for technology-driven policing, personnel training, and public cooperation in maintaining lasting security.
Earlier, Samuel Osasa, Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, said the relaunch aims to align the Fund with emerging security challenges. He highlighted previous interventions, such as providing vehicles and equipment to security agencies and installing modern facilities at the State Police Command to support the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022.
He urged corporate organizations, institutions, and individuals to contribute generously, assuring that all donations would be managed transparently in full compliance with the law.
The event concluded with goodwill messages, generous pledges, and renewed commitments from both public and private stakeholders — all unified in their determination to preserve peace, safety, and sustainable development across Delta State.
What You Should Know
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s relaunch of the Delta State Security Trust Fund marks a major milestone in public-private collaboration for security reform.
With the ₦10 billion donation from Tantita Security Services Limited, the initiative aims to modernize security operations and build investor confidence, positioning Delta State as one of Nigeria’s safest and most economically vibrant regions.
