Asaba, Delta State – October 15, 2025 – In a landmark move to fortify the foundations of peace and prosperity, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday officially launched the Delta State Security Trust Fund, emphasizing an unwavering commitment to public-private partnerships in security management. The ceremony, resounding with declarations of "No More Hiding Place for Criminals," underscored a collective resolve to eradicate insecurity and pave the way for sustainable development across Nigeria's oil-rich Delta State.
Held in the opulent Banquet Hall of Government House, Asaba, the event drew an illustrious assembly of stakeholders, including titans of industry, high-ranking security officials, influential community leaders, and key government functionaries. Presiding as Chairman was Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, the Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, whose presence lent unparalleled gravitas to the proceedings. Serving as Special Guest of Honour was Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, a financial powerhouse synonymous with innovation and growth. The highlight of the launch came from High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, who not only acted as Chief Launcher but also made a staggering N10 billion donation, setting a benchmark for private sector generosity.
Governor Oborevwori, clad in his signature attire that blended traditional elegance with modern authority, took center stage to deliver a passionate address. He vividly recounted the origins and evolution of the Security Trust Fund, first established by law in 2013 as a visionary mechanism to harness private resources alongside governmental efforts. "This fund is more than a financial entity; it is a collaborative fortress designed to mobilize resources from the private sector, ensuring that our investments in security are robust and multifaceted," the Governor articulated. He elaborated that the revitalized fund would prioritize the procurement of state-of-the-art surveillance equipment, rugged operational vehicles tailored for Delta's challenging terrains, and cutting-edge communication tools to enable real-time coordination among security forces.
Moreover, the initiative extends beyond hardware. Governor Oborevwori highlighted comprehensive programs for the training and retraining of security personnel, extending support to community vigilante groups in all 25 local government areas. "From the bustling markets of Asaba to the remote creeks of Bomadi, no corner of Delta will be left unguarded," he affirmed. Drawing on a philosophical truism, he 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."
In a strategic pivot, the Governor announced the rebranding of the state's premier security outfit from Operation Delta Hawk to Operation Delta Sweep. This reimagined joint task force integrates the elite forces of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). "The synergy among these agencies has already yielded significant results," Oborevwori boasted, citing recent triumphs such as the recovery of a massive cache of arms and ammunition from criminal hideouts. These successes, he noted, are not isolated victories but part of a holistic strategy addressing the root causes of insecurity—poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness.
To combat these underlying issues, the administration has rolled out empowerment programs that equip youths with vocational skills, agricultural initiatives that transform fallow lands into productive farms, and a massive infrastructure renewal drive. "We have created thousands of jobs through road reconstructions, bridge rehabilitations, and smart city projects," the Governor revealed. He poignantly added: "Peace and security are better sustained when all citizens, especially women and youths, have opportunities to participate in economic growth. A job in hand is the best deterrent to a gun in hand."
Financially, the state has institutionalized support by allocating 0.5 percent of its monthly Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to the Fund—a steady stream ensuring longevity. Yet, Oborevwori's appeal was heartfelt: "I urge sustained support from the private sector and individuals. Your contributions today are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability, and economic prosperity." He pledged ironclad transparency, assuring that every kobo would be accounted for through rigorous audits and public reporting.
The atmosphere electrified as Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede rose to speak, his words resonating like a clarion call. Describing the launch as "a defining moment in Delta’s history," he lavished praise on Governor Oborevwori's leadership. "Our Governor is both a driver and an enabler of progress. While others talk, he just gets it done," Aig-Imoukhuede quipped, eliciting thunderous applause. He painted a vivid picture of Delta's transformation from a hotspot of unrest to one of Nigeria's most peaceful and progressive states, crediting Oborevwori's hands-on approach.
In a gesture of profound solidarity, Aig-Imoukhuede announced a personal donation of ₦100 million on behalf of himself and his wife, Ofure. "This is just the beginning," he proclaimed, forecasting that the initiative could mobilize up to ₦100 billion in 2025. "This launch does not end today; it begins today. Together, we will continue to strengthen the foundation for Delta’s safety and growth." His optimism was infectious, inspiring a wave of pledges from the audience.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Jim Ovia delivered a goodwill message that blended corporate acumen with patriotic fervor. Commending the governor’s foresight, he hailed the Security Trust Fund as "a bold and forward-looking initiative." As a banking mogul whose Zenith Bank has long partnered with Delta State, Ovia reaffirmed his institution's unwavering support. "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 stated. Ovia's words carried weight, given Zenith's role in financing Delta's developmental leaps, from agro-processing hubs to digital infrastructure.
Representing High Chief Tompolo, Chief Keston Pondi delivered a rousing address that elevated the event's stakes. Lauding Governor Oborevwori for "institutionalizing a framework that enables coordinated private-sector participation," Pondi emphasized the strategic depth of Tantita's involvement. "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." True to his word, Tompolo's N10 billion pledge—equivalent to over $6 million at current rates—positioned Tantita as the cornerstone donor, leveraging the company's expertise in maritime security to bolster statewide efforts.
The keynote address by retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Marvel Akpoyibo, provided a tactical blueprint. "Development and security are inseparable and must go hand in hand," he asserted, commending Delta's ongoing road network transformation as a "major contributor to safety and connectivity." Akpoyibo advocated for amplified investments in technology—drones, AI-driven analytics, and biometric systems—alongside rigorous training and inter-agency collaboration. "True security can only be achieved through shared responsibility," he concluded, urging all present to view the Fund as a national model.
Preceding the speeches, Mr. Samuel Osasa, Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, set the stage with a comprehensive overview. He revealed that the launch aimed to "reinvigorate the fund to meet emerging security needs," noting its historical impacts: procuring vehicles and equipment for agencies, and recently installing modern facilities for the State Police Command to enforce the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022. "Over the years, we have equipped our heroes on the frontlines," Osasa said, appealing to corporate organizations, private institutions, and individuals for generous donations. "Rest assured, all contributions will be judiciously utilized in accordance with the law."
The ceremony culminated in a symphony of goodwill messages and pledges. Public entities like local government councils committed resources, while private firms—from telecom giants to oil majors—vowed multi-million-naira support. Renewed calls for collaboration echoed throughout, with community leaders from ethnic nationalities pledging vigilante integration.
As the event dispersed into networking sessions, the air buzzed with optimism. Governor Oborevwori's vision has not only launched a fund but ignited a movement. In Delta State, where oil wealth once fueled conflict, a new era dawns: one of unity, where private sector muscle amplifies public resolve. No more hiding places for criminals—only boundless opportunities for a thriving populace.
This initiative arrives at a pivotal juncture for Nigeria, where insecurity hampers a $500 billion economy. Delta's model could inspire states like Rivers and Bayelsa, proving that collaborative governance trumps isolated efforts. With ₦100 billion in sight for 2025, the Security Trust Fund isn't just about arms recovery; it's about reclaiming futures, one donation at a time.
