The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Wednesday launched the Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund (AKSTF), describing it as a bold public-private partnership aimed at sustaining the state’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s safest.
Speaking at the Government House in Uyo, Governor Eno said his administration has committed resources to maintaining peace and urged the private sector to join efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture.
Today, we officially launched the Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund, a bold step to strengthen security across our state through a public-private partnership.
This initiative will fund modern security infrastructure, surveillance systems, vehicles, gunboats, and specialised… pic.twitter.com/DcdnS0knDM
— Pastor Umo Eno (@_PastorUmoEno) September 16, 2025
“We are launching the Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund – a public/private partnership vehicle to put all hands on deck to ensure we continue to live in a safe and secure environment so the people may pursue their legitimate undertakings,” he declared.
He highlighted the role of security in development and tourism, noting: “With the huge outflow of Nigerian tourists, Akwa Ibom is being transformed into the best vacation destination in Nigeria. Security is the first order of government, but it is also a shared responsibility.”
The governor recalled initiatives to deepen safety, including the creation of the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways and the Ibom Community Watch, a grassroots intelligence-gathering effort. He also praised security agencies for their contribution, saying:
“That we are celebrated for being one of the safest states in the nation is because of the patriotic and passionate work they have done in partnering with the government to ensure criminals don’t have a haven here in our dear state.”
Governor Eno concluded with a call for collective responsibility: “We are dedicating ourselves to expanding and deepening this ideal of peace and security. With the support of the government, citizens, and the private sector, we will make Akwa Ibom the safest home and Nigeria’s number one vacation destination.”
The Chairman of the occasion, former Inspector General of Police Usman Alkali Baba (Rtd.), commended the governor’s inclusive approach to security, noting: “The model of security management in Akwa Ibom gives citizens a responsibility to contribute to the security of the state, despite the government’s primary duty to maintain law and order.” He urged transparency and efficiency in managing the fund.
Gen. Koko Essien (Rtd.), Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, said the fund will finance technology-driven interventions such as surveillance devices, gunboats, squad cars, and the Safe City initiative, highlighting the state’s 129 km coastline as vulnerable to maritime crimes. “The intention of government is to reorganise our response team, equip them with modern technology, and ensure security agencies are always ahead of criminals,” he said.
The Inspector General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police Baba Azare, described the initiative as “a proactive and visionary step” to strengthen security. “The Security Trust Fund is an opportunity for every citizen to play a role in security management, and the police will fully support this process to sustain Akwa Ibom’s record as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria,” he assured.
Chairman of the Trust Fund, Mr Paul Usoro, SAN, said the public-private partnership model was necessary because “security is an expensive business. This fund will support the government’s investments in security, and with a private-sector management model, we will ensure transparency, efficiency, and sustainability.”
The event, themed “Partnership for a Safer Akwa Ibom,” drew key stakeholders, industry captains, and corporate leaders who donated to the trust fund and pledged ongoing support.
