By Theophilus Onojeghen
The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, emerged as a major catalyst in the drive for enhanced security in Delta State, pledging a landmark N10 billion donation during the formal launch of the Delta State Security Trust Fund on Wednesday.
The Security Trust Fund, modeled after Lagos State Security Trust Fund, is a cornerstone of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s vision to create a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Delta through strategic collaboration between government and the private sector.
The launch event, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Asaba, attracted a broad spectrum of influential figures, including top industry leaders, security chiefs, community representatives, and government officials.
The ceremony was chaired by Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, while Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, Zenith Bank Founder and Chairman, graced the occasion as Special Guest of Honour.
Governor Oborevwori, speaking at the launch of the trust fund, stressed his administration’s unwavering commitment to security, underscoring that the Trust Fund was established by law in 2013 and designed to mobilise private sector resources to complement government efforts.
The fund will prioritise the acquisition of state-of-the-art surveillance technology, operational vehicles, communication tools, and the training of security personnel and community vigilante groups across all 25 local government areas.
He stated that, “Security is a shared responsibility”, adding that “Without it, development stalls, businesses suffer, and investors hesitate. This Trust Fund embodies our collective pledge to peace, safety, and sustainable growth.”
Highlighting progress, Governor Oborevwori announced the rebranding of Operation Delta Hawk to Operation Delta Sweep, a robust joint task force that brings together the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps.
According to him, this synergy has already resulted in significant recoveries of arms and ammunition from criminal networks operating in some parts of the state.
He also disclosed that as part of efforts being made to combat insecurity is his administration’s relentless efforts at addressing poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness through empowerment initiatives, agricultural projects, and infrastructure development.
“Peace and security are better sustained when all citizens, especially women and youths, have opportunities to participate in economic growth,” he said.
The Governor said 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is already allocated monthly to the Security Trust Fund, and 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,” he said, assuring that all funds would be transparently managed.
Chairman of the occasion, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, hailed the launch as a historic milestone for Delta State, applauding Governor Oborevwori’s transformative leadership.
On behalf of himself and his wife, Ofure, he pledged ₦100 million to the Trust Fund, projecting that the initiative could mobilize as much as ₦100 billion by 2025.
Zenith Bank’s founder, Jim Ovia, commended the governor’s foresight, describing the Trust Fund as a bold, future-focused platform.
He pledged continued collaboration and support to ensure a secure and thriving environment for all residents and investors.
Speaking on behalf of Tompolo, Executive Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), Chief Keston Pondi, praised the institutional framework that enables coordinated private-sector involvement in security efforts.
He stressed that the launch represents more than just a financial donation, but a strategic investment in the protection of lives, property, and progress, which he said resonates with the core mission of TSSNL.
In a keynote address, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Marvel Akpoyibo emphasised that security and development are inseparable.
He lauded the ongoing improvement of road infrastructure in Delta State as a key factor in enhancing safety and connectivity and called for increased investment in technology, training, and multi-agency collaboration.
Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, Mr. Samuel Osasa, highlighted the fund’s past achievements, including the provision of vehicles, equipment, and modern facilities for the State Police Command, aimed at strengthening law enforcement and the implementation of the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022.
He appealed for more partnerships from corporate bodies and individuals, assuring responsible management of all donations.
