Osun govt inaugurates security trust fund, attracts N1bn-plus donations

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Osun State Government has launched the State Security Trust Fund with an initial donation of N300 million aimed at strengthening the state’s security architecture.

Speaking at the launch on Thursday in Osogbo, Governor Ademola Adeleke described the initiative as a critical intervention designed to address funding gaps in the security sector, stressing that it is neither political nor self-serving.

Adeleke said the fund would support the establishment of a modern situation room equipped with real-time CCTV surveillance, as well as the procurement of operational tools for security agencies. He called on corporate organisations, financial institutions, development partners and individuals to contribute to the initiative, noting that the protection of lives and property is a collective responsibility.

The governor also assured stakeholders of transparency and accountability in the management of the fund, adding that all contributions would be guided strictly by due process.

The Secretary to the State Government and Vice Chairman of the Implementation Committee, Teslim Igbalaye, said the Security Trust Fund reflects a shared responsibility that cannot be left to government alone.

Igbalaye urged stakeholders, including banks, insurance companies, miners, market associations, labour unions, private individuals, schools and hotels, to support the fund, stressing that no contribution is too small.

“This goes beyond a call for support; it is a call to shared responsibility. The safety of our people and the future of our state are shaped by the choices we make today. We will come to you to seek funds,” he said.

Meanwhile, billionaire businessman Deji Adeleke donated N500 million to the fund, while Olumide Osunshina and Rotimi Ibidapo contributed N50 million each, alongside other donations from individuals and corporate organisations, bringing total pledges to over N1 billion.