Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has officially launched the Delta State Security Trust Fund, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to enhancing security through a public-private partnership model.
The inauguration, held at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Asaba, brought together top industry leaders, security heads, traditional rulers, and senior government officials. In attendance were the Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, who chaired the event; Zenith Bank Founder, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, who served as Special Guest of Honour; and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, represented by Chief Keston Pondi, who made a major donation of ₦10 billion as the Chief Launcher.
Governor Oborevwori explained that the Security Trust Fund—initially established by law in 2013—was designed as a channel to mobilize private sector funding to support government efforts in security infrastructure.
He stated that the fund will focus on acquiring surveillance equipment, operational vehicles, and communication tools, as well as training and retraining security personnel and community vigilante groups across the 25 LGAs.
“Security is everyone’s concern, not just the government’s,” the governor said.
“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.”
Emphasizing the government’s proactive approach, Oborevwori announced that Operation Delta Hawk had been reorganized and renamed Operation Delta Sweep —a multi-agency task team involving the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps. He credited this coordinated effort for significant breakthroughs in recovering illegal arms.
He also highlighted efforts to address insecurity at its roots through youth empowerment, agricultural schemes, and infrastructure projects that continue to generate jobs and promote stability.
“True and lasting peace is possible when citizens, especially the youth and women, are actively involved in economic development,” he stated.
The governor further disclosed that 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) will be allocated monthly to the Security Trust Fund and urged continued private sector backing.
“What you contribute today is not merely a donation — it is an investment in Delta’s peace and prosperity,” he assured, promising accountability and transparency in fund management.
In his address, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede described the initiative as a defining moment in the growth of Delta State.
He commended Governor Oborevwori’s decisive leadership, stating, “while many talk, our governor delivers.”
Aig-Imoukhuede also announced a personal donation of ₦100 million from himself and his wife, Ofure Aig-Imoukhuede, expressing confidence that the fund could grow to ₦100 billion by 2025. “This launch marks the beginning of a journey toward a safer, stronger Delta,” he said.
Zenith Bank Chairman, Jim Ovia, praised the governor’s foresight, calling the Trust Fund a forward-looking model for inclusive security management.
He reaffirmed Zenith Bank’s continued partnership with the state, emphasising that “security remains the bedrock of peace, prosperity, and business confidence.”
Speaking on behalf of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, Chief Keston Pondi said the ₦10 billion donation demonstrates a deliberate effort by the private sector to play a strategic role in improving security. “This is more than a financial contribution — it is a strategic investment in Delta’s peace and stability,” he noted.
Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Marvel Akpoyibo, who delivered the keynote address, applauded Delta’s infrastructure development, particularly its enhanced road network, which he described as key to safety and access. He called for stronger collaboration, technology-based policing, and continuous personnel training, stressing that true security is a shared responsibility.
Earlier, Samuel Osasa, Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, said the relaunch was aimed at repositioning the fund to meet new security challenges. He noted previous support initiatives, including vehicle and equipment donations to security agencies and the installation of modern facilities at the State Police Command to support the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022.
The event featured goodwill messages, major pledges, and renewed commitments from both public and private stakeholders, all united in their determination to sustain peace, security, and development across Delta State.