The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, MON, has described his emergence as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Man of the Year 2026 as a strong endorsement of the growing partnership between the nation’s security agencies and the media.
Receiving the award on Monday, Ajayi expressed gratitude to the NUJ for the honour, saying the recognition reflects the positive working relationship the DSS has built with journalists since he assumed office.
“I deeply value this award from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, which is why I chose to receive it personally,” he said. “Since I came into office, the media has remained a dependable partner of the Service, and we will continue to work together in areas that promote national development.”
The DSS boss reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to press freedom, recalling his pledge that journalists would not be subjected to arbitrary arrests. According to him, the DSS has remained faithful to that commitment.
He noted that the award would inspire the Service to strengthen its efforts toward improving national security while continuing to support initiatives that enhance the professional capacity of journalists.
Earlier, NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the union’s National Executive Council unanimously approved Ajayi for the prestigious award in recognition of his leadership and commitment to constructive engagement with the media.
He explained that the Director-General’s support for the successful hosting of the NUJ National Security Summit in Abuja in June, alongside his efforts to foster stronger relations between the DSS and the media, played a significant role in the council’s decision.
According to Abdullahi, the award celebrates outstanding public service, professionalism, and initiatives that promote responsible communication, mutual understanding, and stronger institutional collaboration between the media and security agencies.
He added that the NUJ remains committed to expanding partnerships that will contribute to a safer, more democratic, and prosperous Nigeria through openness, trust, and mutual respect.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials of the DSS and members of the NUJ National Executive, including National Secretary, Comrade Achike Chude, and Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike.(Independent Voice)
