ASABA: The Delta State Government on Wednesday officially launched the Delta State Security Trust Fund, an initiative designed to strengthen the state’s security architecture through public-private collaboration.
The event, held in Asaba, drew an impressive list of dignitaries, including the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Chief Launcher of the occasion, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo; former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd); and former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Marvel Akpoyibo (rtd).
Also in attendance were the representative of the Inspector-General of Police, AIG Egbetokun; the Delta State Commissioner of Police; the State Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps; Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Chief Jim Ovia; and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), alongside several members of the organized private sector.
The traditional institution was well represented by His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri; His Royal Majesty, Obi Epiphany Azinge (SAN), the Asagba of Asaba; Major General Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council.
The gathering also featured the Secretary to the State Government, the Chairman of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, past and present members of the Delta State House of Assembly, senior military officers, retired security personnel, and prominent business leaders.
In his keynote address, DIG Marvel Akpoyibo (rtd) called for a shift from conventional approaches to security management, stressing the need for a more coordinated and technology-driven strategy.
He said: The Security Trust Fund has been established by law, and it requires the collaboration of everyone to function effectively.
Security is not only the responsibility of government; every well-meaning Deltan and member of the private sector must support this laudable initiative.
Akpoyibo noted that the state’s security agencies require enhanced communication gadgets, surveillance systems, and operational vehicles to boost their capacity.
He added that a united effort would create a safer and more conducive environment for business and investment to thrive.
In his goodwill message, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, expressed delight at being part of the launch, noting that his wife hails from Delta State while he is from neighbouring Edo State.
He said: I am happy to be part of this important occasion because Delta is also home to me. No business can thrive where there is no security.
There was a time when travelling through certain roads in Delta was a frightening experience, but efforts like this show we are moving in the right direction.
Similarly, Chief Jim Ovia, Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, commended the state government’s foresight in establishing the trust fund, describing security as a shared responsibility between government and citizens.
Ovia said: Security is everyone’s responsibility. We must all take it seriously and support this initiative.
I have personally supported the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, which was the first of its kind in Nigeria, and I can testify to its impact. I am confident that Delta’s version will achieve even greater success.
In his remarks, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed appreciation to all dignitaries present, noting that he personally persuaded Chief Tompolo to attend the event.
The governor revealed that Tompolo had not attended any public function outside his hometown for over ten years, adding that his presence at the launch was a clear demonstration of his commitment to the state’s peace and security agenda.
The Delta State Security Trust Fund is expected to mobilise resources for equipping and supporting security agencies, enhancing surveillance infrastructure, and improving response capacity across the state.
