The Enugu State government on Thursday said that it would raise N20 billion over the next four years to improve its security architecture.

This is with a view to achieving its promise of growing the economy from ₦4.4 billion to ₦30 billion, stressing that it was poised to foster an environment where businesses can thrive and wealth can be created in peace.

The state government, which stated that the ambitious effort had kick-started, added that it would raise about ₦5 billion from various sources before the end of 2024, while the rest would be spread over the next three years.

Chairman of the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF), Dr. Ike Chioke, said, during a media launch of the Fund, that realising the ₦5 billion for the year would require ₦750 million from the state government, leveraging a portion of its annual security vote; ₦1 billion from each of the 17 local government areas within the state; ₦2.5 billion from businesses operating in the state through a structured security levy; and ₦375 million from citizens of the state both home and abroad.

Chioke stated that Governor Peter Mbah’s lofty aspirations for the state were currently hindered by significant security challenges that have posed valid concerns for residents, investors, and tourists alike.

“As we all know, security challenges are a barrier to progress. Over the years, Enugu, like many states in the Southeast region of Nigeria, has faced rising insecurity. The challenges include violent activities from separatist groups, kidnapping, armed robbery, herders/farmers conflicts, and the proliferation of small arms.

“In addition to that, political thuggery, cultism, cybercrime, and other forms of criminal activities have also compounded the insecurity, leading to economic disruptions and a general sense of fear among residents. These issues not only affect the daily lives of our people but also deter potential investors; this is not good for economic growth and social development,” he stated.

He added that the idea of a security trust fund was mooted by the governor a few days after assuming duty, leading to the establishment of a committee in February this year to prosecute it.

He added that for the Fund to succeed, it must have the collective support of all stakeholders.

Chioke added that the Fund would help improve the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies, ensure quicker response to emergencies, and create a safer environment for businesses and residents, stressing that a secure Enugu State will attract investment, promote business continuity, and foster economic development that will lead to job creation, improved infrastructure, and a higher standard of living for our people.

“For corporate entities, supporting the ESSTF is a demonstration of commitment to social responsibility. It enhances your company’s reputation and aligns your brand with the positive development of the state. Contributions to the ESSTF can qualify for tax deductions, offering financial benefits to donors while supporting a noble cause. The funds raised through the ESSTF will be directed toward strategic projects that will strengthen security across Enugu State.

“We will provide insurance coverage for security personnel and establish a fund to support the families of security casualties. Investment in CCTV systems and street lighting will enhance our surveillance capabilities, allowing for better monitoring and deterrence of criminal activities.

“We plan to equip community-based vigilante groups with the necessary training, communication devices, patrol vehicles, and protective gear to improve their effectiveness, as well as additional security vehicles, motorbikes, and communication tools to ensure that our security agencies are well-equipped to respond to incidents promptly,” he added.

Also speaking, Governor Peter Mbah, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, stated that it was a well-thought-out initiative to improve the economy of the state and make Enugu the home of all.

He said that the security of lives and property was cardinal in the program of the government and called on citizens of the state to help the government realise its objectives.