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By Our Reporter

Asaba | October 15, 2025

Governor Sheriff Oborevwor of Delta State has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to make the State one of Nigeria’s safest and most investment-friendly states as he formally launched the Delta State Security Trust Fund in Asaba.

The event, which held Wednesday, October 15, 2025 in the Banquet Hall, Government House, brought together captains of industry, security chiefs, traditional rulers, community leaders, and top government officials.

Among the distinguished guests were the Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, who chaired the occasion; Zenith Bank Founder and Chairman, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, who served as Special Guest of Honour; and the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), who served as Chief Launcher with a donation of ₦10 billion.

Strengthening Security Through Partnership

In his address, Governor Oborevwori said the Security Trust Fund—established by law in 2013—was designed as a public-private partnership platform for mobilizing resources to complement government’s investment in security operations.

He explained that the fund would focus on modern surveillance systems, patrol vehicles, communication tools, and the training of security personnel and vigilante groups across the state’s 25 local government areas.

“Security is not the sole responsibility of government; it is everyone’s business,” the governor declared. “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.”

Oborevwori noted that his administration had rebranded Operation Delta Hawk into Operation Delta Sweep, a multi-agency task force involving the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps.

He said the synergy among the agencies had already produced tangible results, including the recovery of arms and ammunition from criminal elements. The governor also outlined wider social and economic strategies—such as youth empowerment, agricultural development, and infrastructure renewal—as key drivers of sustainable peace.

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

‘Your Donations Are Investments in Peace’

Governor Oborevwori disclosed that 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is already being allocated monthly to the Security Trust Fund and appealed for sustained private sector participation.

“Your contributions today are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability, and prosperity,” he said, assuring that the Fund would be transparently managed in line with global best practices.

Leaders Commend Oborevwori’s Vision

Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, described the initiative as a defining moment in Delta’s journey toward sustainable development and praised the governor’s leadership style.

“Our governor is both a driver and an enabler of progress,” Aig-Imoukhuede said. “While others talk, he gets things done.”

He announced a ₦100 million personal donation on behalf of himself and his wife, Ofure, and projected that the Fund could mobilize up to ₦100 billion by 2025.

“This launch does not end today—it begins today. Together, we will strengthen the foundation for Delta’s safety and growth,” he declared.

In his goodwill message, Mr. Jim Ovia commended the governor’s foresight and reaffirmed Zenith Bank’s partnership with the state.

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