In a bold move to enhance security and foster sustainable development, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday officially launched the Delta State Security Trust Fund (DSSTF), reaffirming his administration’s resolve to tackle crime through a robust public-private security partnership.
Speaking at the event held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Asaba, the Governor declared: “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”.
Governor Oborevwori noted that the Security Trust Fund, established by law in 2013, was being reinvigorated to address emerging security threats through enhanced funding, cutting edge technology, and inter-agency collaboration.
According to him, the fund will prioritise the acquisition of surveillance equipment, operational vehicles, communication tools and training for security personnel and community vigilante groups across all 25 local government areas.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State (left) exchanges pleasantries with the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Ltd., High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (middle), during the launch of the Delta State Security Trust Fund at Government House, Asaba, as Chairman of the occasion, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede (right), looks on.
He added: “Peace and security are better sustained when all citizens, especially women and youths, have opportunities to participate in economic growth”.
The governor also unveiled the rebranded joint task force Operation Delta Sweep (formerly Operation Delta Hawk), comprising the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps. He highlighted successes achieved so far, including the recovery of arms and ammunition from criminal hideouts, and stressed that security interventions were being complemented by empowerment programmes and infrastructure development.
“To demonstrate our commitment, 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is already allocated monthly to the Security Trust Fund”, he said.
“Your contributions today are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability and economic prosperity”, he assured.
Chairman of the occasion, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, described the event as “a defining moment in the state’s history”, praising Governor Oborevwori’s leadership style.
“Our Governor is both a driver and an enabler of progress”, Aig-Imoukhuede said. “While others talk, he just gets it done”.
He pledged ₦100 million on behalf of himself and his wife, Ofure, and expressed confidence that the initiative could raise up to ₦100 billion by 2025.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (right) greets the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III (left), Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN (middle), and the Orodje of Okpe and Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Retd.), at the Security Trust Fund launch.
“This launch does not end today, it begins today. Together, we will continue to strengthen the foundation for Delta’s safety and growth”, he declared.
Mr Jim Ovia, CON, Chairman and Founder of Zenith Bank Plc, hailed the Security Trust Fund as “a bold and forward looking initiative”. He reiterated Zenith Bank’s commitment to the state, stating: “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”.
High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), through his representative Chief Keston Pondi, pledged a donation of ₦10 billion on behalf of Tantita Security Services Ltd. Pondi said: “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”.
In a keynote address, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Marvel Akpoyibo emphasised that true development is impossible without security. He called for greater investments in security technology, personnel training and institutional cooperation.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (right) in a warm handshake with Mr Jim Ovia (Chairman, Zenith Bank PLC) during the fundraising ceremony for the Delta State Security Trust Fund held at Government House, Asaba
He commended the state’s ongoing infrastructure renewal, noting: “The transformation of road networks in Delta State is a major contributor to safety and connectivity”.
The Executive Secretary of the Trust Fund, Mr Samuel Osasa, said the relaunch would enable the Fund to meet the rising demand for coordinated security intervention.
He disclosed that past interventions had included provision of operational vehicles and the installation of facilities to aid implementation of the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022.
He appealed to individuals, corporate bodies and institutions to support the initiative. “All contributions will be judiciously utilised in accordance with the law”, he assured.
The event featured goodwill messages, pledges of financial support from public and private sector actors and renewed calls for collaborative efforts toward enduring peace across the state.
