Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has justified the reactivation of Osun State Security Trust Fund on the grounds of growing insecurity and public sector funding challenges facing all levels of government.
To show the commitment of the state government, Adeleke announced a contribution of N300 million to the trust fund.
Billionaire philanthropist and brother of the governor, Dr. Deji Adeleke, donated N500 million, while several businesses contributed various amounts.
The governor also used the occasion to announce the imminent distribution of refurbished Armoured Personnel Carriers and new patrol vehicles.
He declared, “The administration is determined to maintain Osun record as one of the most peaceful states in the country.”
Launching the security trust fund on Thursday in Osogbo, the governor decried the abandonment of the trust fund initiative by the Gboyega Oyetola administration, describing the implementation of the trust fund as “long overdue”.
According to the governor, several states in Nigeria have established security trust funds. Osun State started the process, but it was abandoned under the immediate past administration of Oyetola.
Adeleke stated, “Our government decided to revive the initiative by updating the law and organising the launching today. A security trust fund is a matter of necessity considering the security climate in Nigeria and Osun State.
“We all know Nigeria faces security challenges. Yet, available public financing resources are limited. Governments at all levels then initiate public-private partnership to bridge the funding gap.
“It is neither a political project nor a self-serving policy. This is a necessary policy to secure our people. Only an irresponsible government will abandon the PPP arrangement that is working so well in Lagos, Kaduna, River states among others. Ours is a responsible leadership with people-oriented innovations, policies and programmes.
“This fund is designed to provide sustainable funding for modern security infrastructure. Through this Fund, we will establish a modern Situation Room with real time CCTV surveillance. We will continue the provision of operational tools required by our security agencies.”
The governor appreciated all individuals, corporate organisations, and stakeholders that had been contacted.
He stated, “We appreciate your positive disposition. Today, I am inviting, for partnership, the private sector, financial institutions, development partners, professional bodies and all sons and daughters of Osun State.
“As a trust fund regulated by law, I assure you of strict accountability, transparency and due process in the management of the trust fund.”
Secretary to the State Government, who also doubled as Deputy Chairman of the trust fund, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, congratulated the governor for reactivating the fund after its enabling law was passed as far back as 2012.
Several special guests pledged support for the initiative.
Yinka Kolawole
