DSS DG Describes NUJ Man of the Year Award as Boost to Security-Media Partnership

The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, MON, has described his recognition as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Man of the Year 2026 as a strong endorsement of the growing partnership between Nigeria’s security agencies and the media.

Receiving the award on Monday, Ajayi expressed appreciation to the NUJ, saying the honour reflects the positive working relationship that has developed between the DSS and journalists since he assumed office.
“I so much value this award coming from the Nigeria Union of Journalists; hence the reason I chose to receive it personally,” he said.

According to the DSS Director-General, the media has remained a dependable partner of the Service, adding that the agency is committed to sustaining collaboration with journalists in areas that promote national development and security.

Ajayi also reaffirmed the DSS’s commitment to press freedom, recalling his earlier pledge that there would be “no arrest of journalists.” He stated that the Service has remained faithful to that commitment and pledged continued support for initiatives that strengthen journalists’ professional capacity.

He added that the recognition would further motivate the DSS to intensify its efforts towards enhancing national security while maintaining constructive engagement with the media.

Earlier, NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the union’s National Executive Council unanimously approved Ajayi as the recipient of the NUJ Man of the Year 2026 award.

According to Abdullahi, the decision was based on the DSS Director-General’s leadership in strengthening relations with the media as well as the agency’s support for the NUJ National Security Summit held in Abuja in June 2026.

He noted that the award recognises professionalism, dedication to public service, and efforts that promote responsible communication, mutual understanding, and stronger institutional collaboration between the media and security agencies.

The NUJ President also reaffirmed the union’s commitment to deepening partnerships with relevant institutions to support national security, democratic governance, and sustainable development.

The award ceremony was attended by senior management officials of the Department of State Services and members of the NUJ national leadership, including National Secretary Comrade Achike Chude and Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike.