…Aig-Imoukhuede, Ovia, Others Back Oborevwori’s Private-Sector Security Drive
The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has emerged as the single largest donor to the Delta State Security Trust Fund, with a landmark ₦10 billion pledge to support the state’s new security architecture.
The donation was announced on Wednesday during the official launch of the Delta State Security Trust Fund at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Asaba. Modeled after the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, the initiative is a key part of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s vision to strengthen security through government–private sector collaboration.
The high-profile event drew prominent figures from Nigeria’s financial and security sectors, including the Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, who chaired the occasion, and Zenith Bank Founder and Chairman, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, who attended as a Special Guest of Honour.
Governor Oborevwori, in his remarks, said the Trust Fund—originally established by law in 2013—had been revitalised to mobilise resources for modern security operations. He said the fund would focus on acquiring surveillance equipment, patrol vehicles, communication systems, and the training of security and community vigilance personnel across the 25 local government areas.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” the governor said. “Without it, development stalls, businesses suffer, and investors hesitate. This Trust Fund embodies our collective pledge to peace, safety, and sustainable growth.”
He also announced that Operation Delta Hawk has been rebranded as Operation Delta Sweep, a joint security outfit comprising the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps. According to him, this renewed synergy has already led to significant recoveries of arms and ammunition from criminal networks across the state.
The governor further explained that the fight against insecurity goes beyond policing, highlighting his administration’s initiatives to tackle poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness through empowerment, agriculture, 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.
He revealed that 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is already being dedicated monthly to the fund, and urged the private sector and individuals to contribute actively. “Your contributions today are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability, and economic prosperity,” Oborevwori stated, assuring that all funds would be managed transparently.
Chairman of the occasion, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, described the launch as a historic milestone for Delta State and commended the governor for his visionary leadership. He announced a personal donation of ₦100 million on behalf of himself and his wife, Ofure, predicting that the initiative could mobilise up to ₦100 billion by 2025.
Zenith Bank’s founder, Jim Ovia, praised Governor Oborevwori’s foresight, describing the Trust Fund as a “bold, future-focused platform” that will inspire investor confidence. He pledged continued support and collaboration from the banking community to ensure a secure and thriving environment for residents and businesses.
Speaking on behalf of Tompolo, TSSNL Executive Director, Chief Keston Pondi, said the ₦10 billion commitment reflects the organisation’s long-term partnership with the government in safeguarding lives and critical oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta. He said the gesture was “not just a financial donation, but a strategic investment in the protection of lives, property, and progress,” aligning with Tantita’s core mission.
In his keynote address, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Marvel Akpoyibo, noted that development and security are inseparable, lauding the ongoing improvement of road infrastructure across Delta State as a major enabler of safety and economic activity. He called for more investment in technology, intelligence, and multi-agency cooperation.
Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, Mr. Samuel Osasa, highlighted the fund’s past contributions to the State Police Command, including the provision of vehicles, operational equipment, and facilities that have strengthened the enforcement of the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022. He assured all donors that the fund would maintain transparency and accountability in managing every contribution.