My administration determined to sustain Osun’s status as most peaceful state  – Adeleke

By Sunday Oguntuyi, Osogbo

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining Osun as the most peaceful state in Nigeria.

Adeleke made this known during the launch of the Osun State Security Trust Fund held at the WOCDIF Event Centre in Osogbo.

The governor lamented what he described as the abandonment of the trust fund initiative by the previous administration, noting that its implementation was long overdue.

He disclosed that his government would soon deploy refurbished Armoured Personnel Carriers and new patrol vehicles to strengthen security operations across the state.

“Our government decided to revive this initiative by updating the law and organising this launch. A security trust fund is a necessity, considering the current security climate in Nigeria and Osun State,” Adeleke said.

He noted that while Nigeria continues to face security challenges, limited public funding has made it imperative for governments at all levels to adopt public-private partnerships to bridge the gap.

“This is neither a political project nor a self-serving policy. It is a necessary step to secure our people. Only an irresponsible government would abandon a PPP arrangement that has worked effectively in states like Lagos, Kaduna, and Rivers,” he stated.

According to the governor, the fund is designed to provide sustainable financing for modern security infrastructure across the state.

“Through this fund, we will establish a modern Situation Room with real-time CCTV surveillance. We will also continue to provide operational tools required by our security agencies,” he added.

Adeleke expressed appreciation to individuals, corporate organisations, and other stakeholders for their support and urged broader participation.

“I invite the private sector, financial institutions, development partners, professional bodies, and all sons and daughters of Osun State to partner with us. As a trust fund regulated by law, I assure you of accountability, transparency, and due process in its management,” he said.

The governor announced a personal donation of N300 million to the fund.

In his contribution, billionaire philanthropist and brother of the governor, Deji Adeleke, donated N500 million, while several corporate organisations also pledged support.

Also speaking, the Secretary to the State Government and Deputy Chairman of the Trust Fund, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, commended the governor for activating the initiative, noting that the enabling law had been in existence since 2012.

He, alongside other dignitaries at the event, called for sustained support to ensure the success of the fund.