By Danjuma Amodu
The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, MON, has said the conferment of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Man of the Year 2026 Award on him validates the growing collaboration between security agencies and the media in Nigeria.
Mr. Ajayi received the award on Monday in Abuja, describing it as a recognition of the synergy built 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. Since assuming office, the media has been a friend of the Service, and we will continue to partner in areas we can for the development of the country.”
— Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, DG DSS
Reaffirming the Service’s commitment to press freedom, the DSS boss recalled his public pledge of “no arrest of journalists,” and confirmed that the agency has strictly adhered to the principle.
He said the honour would serve as “a push for us to do more in promoting security in our country,” and pledged continued support for professional capacity-building for journalists.
Presenting the award, NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the union’s National Executive Council unanimously selected Mr. Ajayi for the honour.
He cited the DG’s leadership in strengthening media engagement and the DSS’ support during the NUJ National Security Summit held in Abuja in June as key reasons for the decision.
According to Abdullahi, the award celebrates professionalism, dedication to public service, and initiatives that reinforce mutual understanding and institutional cooperation between security agencies and the media.
“The NUJ recognises leaders who promote responsible communication and openness. This partnership is critical to building a secure and democratic Nigeria,” he said.
The ceremony ended with both the DSS and NUJ pledging to deepen institutional collaboration to promote national security, democracy and good governance.
The event was attended by senior management staff of the DSS and top NUJ executives, including National Secretary, Comrade Achike Chude, and FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike.
