Governor Sheriff Oborevwori inaugurates the Delta State Security Trust Fund in Asaba, with top business leaders pledging over N10 billion to strengthen state security. Photo Credit: Delta State Press
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has inaugurated the Delta State Security Trust Fund, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening security through a public-private partnership that mobilizes resources to combat insecurity across the state.
The event, held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Asaba, brought together prominent business leaders, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and senior government officials. Notable attendees included Access Holdings Group Chairman, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede (CFR), who chaired the occasion; Zenith Bank Founder, Jim Ovia (CON), as Special Guest of Honour; and Tantita Security Services Limited Chairman, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, represented by Chief Keston Pondi, who made a landmark donation of N10 billion as Chief Launcher.
Governor Oborevwori explained that the Security Trust Fund, first established by law in 2013, serves as a platform for mobilizing private sector support to complement government investment in security infrastructure. He stated that the fund would focus on procuring surveillance technology, operational vehicles, communication systems, and training security personnel across the 25 local government areas.
“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 symbolizes our joint resolve to sustain peace, safety, and economic growth.”
The governor further revealed that 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has been earmarked monthly for the fund, assuring transparent management of resources.
Highlighting proactive security reforms, Oborevwori announced the restructuring of Operation Delta Hawk into Operation Delta Sweep, a multi-agency task force involving the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps, which has achieved major breakthroughs in recovering illegal arms.
He emphasized that his administration is tackling insecurity at its roots through youth empowerment, agricultural initiatives, and infrastructure renewal aimed at generating jobs and promoting stability.
Chairman of the occasion, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, described the initiative as a “watershed moment in Delta’s development story,” praising the governor’s “pragmatic leadership that delivers results.” He pledged a N100 million personal donation from himself and his wife, adding that the fund could attract up to N100 billion by 2025.
Zenith Bank Chairman, Jim Ovia, lauded the initiative as a visionary model for inclusive security management, reaffirming the bank’s partnership with the state and describing security as “the bedrock of peace, prosperity, and business confidence.”
Representing Ekpemupolo, Chief Keston Pondi said Tantita Security’s N10 billion donation underscored the private sector’s readiness to invest in peace and stability.
Delivering the keynote address, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Marvel Akpoyibo commended the state’s infrastructural advancements and urged deeper collaboration, technology-driven policing, and regular personnel training to sustain progress.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, Samuel Osasa, explained that the relaunch aims to reposition the fund to meet emerging security needs, citing past support to agencies, including vehicle donations and modern communication upgrades at the State Police Command.
The event ended with goodwill messages, generous pledges, and renewed commitments from both public and private stakeholders united in their resolve to secure Delta’s peace and prosperity.
About the Author
