Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making the state unsafe for criminals with the official relaunch of the Delta State Security Trust Fund (DSSTF) — a major step toward strengthening security through public-private collaboration.
The event, held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Asaba, attracted prominent figures from the business, security, and traditional sectors. Among the dignitaries were Access Holdings Group Chairman, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, who chaired the event; Zenith Bank Founder, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, as Special Guest of Honour; and High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), represented by Chief Keston Pondi, who made headlines with a generous ₦10 billion donation as Chief Launcher.
Governor Oborevwori explained that the Trust Fund, first established by law in 2013, serves as a platform for mobilizing private sector resources to complement government efforts in securing lives and property across the state.
He said the fund would prioritize the procurement of surveillance technology, patrol vehicles, and modern communication tools, alongside training and retraining of security agencies and community vigilante groups in all 25 local government areas.
“Security is everyone’s business, not just the government’s,” the governor emphasized. “Without peace, there can be no progress. Investors will hesitate, and businesses cannot thrive. This Fund is a shared commitment to peace, safety, and prosperity in Delta.”
The governor also highlighted ongoing reforms within the state’s security architecture, revealing that Operation Delta Hawk has been restructured and renamed Operation Delta Sweep — a multi-agency task force comprising the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps. According to him, the renewed synergy has led to the recovery of several illegal arms and other security breakthroughs.
Beyond enforcement, Oborevwori said his administration is addressing the root causes of insecurity through youth empowerment, agriculture, and infrastructure development — initiatives that continue to create jobs and enhance community stability.
“True and lasting peace is achievable when our youth and women are actively engaged in productive ventures,” he added.
To sustain funding, the governor announced that 0.5% of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) would be dedicated monthly to the Security Trust Fund, assuring transparency and accountability in its management.
“Every contribution made today is more than a donation — it’s an investment in Delta’s peace and future,” he noted.
In his remarks, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede praised the initiative as a milestone in Delta’s development history and commended Governor Oborevwori for his pragmatic leadership.
“While many talk, this governor delivers,” he said, pledging a personal donation of ₦100 million from himself and his wife, Mrs. Ofure Aig-Imoukhuede. “This launch marks the beginning of a safer, stronger Delta. With commitment, this Fund could grow to ₦100 billion by 2025.”
Zenith Bank Founder, Jim Ovia, also lauded the governor’s foresight, describing the Trust Fund as a forward-thinking approach to inclusive security management.
“Security is the foundation of development and investor confidence,” Ovia said, reaffirming Zenith Bank’s commitment to supporting the initiative.
Representing Tompolo, Chief Keston Pondi described his principal’s ₦10 billion contribution as a strategic investment in the peace and stability of Delta State.
“This is not just a financial gesture; it is a call for all stakeholders to take ownership of our collective safety,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Marvel Akpoyibo, commended the state’s improved road infrastructure and called for deeper collaboration, technology-driven policing, and continuous training of personnel.
Earlier, Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, Mr. Samuel Osasa, said the relaunch was aimed at repositioning the fund to meet emerging security challenges. He cited past interventions such as the provision of vehicles, communication tools, and facility upgrades for the State Police Command to support the implementation of the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022.
He appealed to corporate bodies, institutions, and individuals to contribute generously, assuring that all donations would be managed transparently in line with the law.
The event concluded with goodwill messages, generous pledges, and renewed commitments from public and private stakeholders — all united in one vision: to keep Delta safe, peaceful, and open for growth.
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