Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has formally launched the State Security Trust Fund in his administration’s bid to ensure a safer, stronger, more prosperous state through public-private partnership in security management.

The event, which was held on Wednesday at Government House, Asaba, was graced by captains of industry, security chiefs, community leaders, and top government officials, including Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Jim Ovia, and Government Ekpemupolo.

Mr Oborevwori said the trust fund established by law in 2013 was designed as a collaborative platform for mobilising resources from the private sector to complement the government’s investment in security. 

He explained that the fund would focus on acquiring modern surveillance equipment, operational vehicles, and communication tools, as well as supporting the training and retraining of security personnel and community vigilante groups across the 25 local councils.

Mr Oborevwori said, “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.”

The governor said his administration rebranded Operation Delta Hawk as Operation Delta Sweep and as a joint task force involving the army, navy, air force, police, SSS, and NSCDC. According  to him, the synergy among these agencies is yielding significant results, as caches of arms and ammunition have been recovered from criminal elements in the state.

He said that to tackle the root causes of insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness, the government has adopted a broader strategy. This strategy includes empowerment programmes, agricultural initiatives, and massive infrastructure renewal, which have created thousands of jobs.

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

Mr Oborevwori said 0.5 per cent of the state’s internally generated revenue has  already been allocated monthly to the trust fund. He appealed for sustained support from the private sector and individuals.

“Your contributions today are not just donations. They are investments in peace, stability, and economic prosperity,” the governor said.

He assured that all funds would be transparently managed.

(NAN)