Oborevwori launches Delta security trust fund, seeks private sector support

Tompolo’s Tantita pledges N10bn, Aig-Imoukhuede donates N100m, as state targets safer future through public-private security collaboration

In a major step towards strengthening public safety and investor confidence, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday launched the State Security Trust Fund, calling on the private sector to partner with government in tackling insecurity and driving sustainable development.

Speaking at the high-profile launch held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba, the governor declared that the era of unchecked criminality in the state was over.

He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to create a safer, more prosperous Delta through coordinated security efforts.

According to the Governor, “Security is not the sole responsibility of government, it is everyone’s business.

“Without adequate security, development cannot thrive, businesses cannot operate freely, and investors will be reluctant to commit their resources.

”This Trust Fund represents our shared commitment to peace, public safety, and sustainable growth, ” he stated.

Governor Oborevwori also disclosed that 0.5 per cent of Delta’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) was already earmarked monthly for the fund.

He further called for sustained private-sector backing to scale the fund’s reach and impact.

“Your contributions today are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability, and economic prosperity,” he said, assuring that all funds would be transparently managed in line with statutory provisions.

Governor Oborevwori also unveiled his administration’s security blueprint, which included the rebranding of Operation Delta Hawk to Operation Delta Sweep, a joint task force involving the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps.

He cited recent successes, including the recovery of illegal arms and ammunition, and stressed that deeper investments were also being made in addressing root causes of insecurity such as poverty, youth unemployment, and social exclusion.

“Peace and security are better sustained when all citizens, especially women and youths, have opportunities to participate in economic growth,” he said.

The launch drew heavyweight support from Nigeria’s business and security circles.

Notably, Tantita Security Services Ltd., led by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), announced a landmark N10 billion donation to the fund, the single largest security-sector contribution in the state’s history.

“What we are launching today goes beyond a financial contribution.
“It is a strategic investment in peace, progress, and the protection of lives and property, ”said Chief Keston Pondi, who represented Tompolo at the event.

Also present were Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, who chaired the event, and Zenith Bank Founder, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, who served as Special Guest of Honour.

Aig-Imoukhuede praised Oborevwori’s leadership, describing the initiative as a “defining moment” in the history of Delta State and committed N100 million on behalf of himself and his wife.

“Our Governor is both a driver and an enabler of progress. While others talk, he just gets it done.

“This launch does not end today, it begins today. Together, we will continue to strengthen the foundation for Delta’s safety and growth, ”Aig-Imoukhuede said.

Jim Ovia lauded the boldness of the initiative and assured of Zenith Bank’s continued collaboration with the state government.

“Security is the foundation of peace, prosperity, and business growth. This Fund brings together stakeholders to build a safer and more stable environment for citizens and investors alike,” he said.

Delivering the keynote address, Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Marvel Akpoyibo emphasised that development and security must go hand in hand.

He praised the state’s expanding road network as a driver of both economic and physical security, and called for increased investment in surveillance technology and cross-agency collaboration.

“True security can only be achieved through shared responsibility,” Akpoyibo said.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, Mr. Samuel Osasa, said the relaunch was designed to meet rising security demands and modern threats.

He disclosed that the Fund had already provided key operational tools and recently helped install advanced facilities at the State Police Command to support implementation of the Delta State Criminal Justice Law, 2022.

He further appealed to corporations and philanthropists to view security funding not as charity, but as a strategic investment in their own stability.

“We are committed to the transparent and judicious use of all contributions, in accordance with the law,” Osasa said.

The launch was punctuated by goodwill messages, high-level pledges, and renewed calls for collaboration across public and private sectors.

With billions already committed, stakeholders say the Delta State Security Trust Fund is poised to become a national model for funding security sustainably, inclusively, and transparently.