NUJ Honour Validates Security-Media Partnership, Says DSS DG
By Bukar BOLORI
Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, has described his emergence as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Man of the Year 2026 as a validation of the growing partnership between the nation’s security agencies and the media.
Ajayi said the honour reflected the progress made in fostering mutual trust and collaboration between the DSS and journalists in promoting national security and democratic governance.
Speaking after receiving the award on Monday, the DSS boss expressed gratitude to the NUJ, noting that the recognition was particularly significant because it came from media professionals.
“I so much value this award coming from the Nigeria Union of Journalists; hence the reason I chose to receive it personally,” Ajayi said.
He recalled that since assuming office, the media had maintained a cordial relationship with the Service, pledging that the partnership would continue in the interest of national development.
“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,” he added.
The DSS Director-General also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to press freedom, recalling his earlier pledge that there would be “no arrest of journalists.”
According to him, the Service has remained faithful to that commitment, adding that the recognition would further motivate the DSS to intensify efforts towards improving national security while supporting initiatives that strengthen journalists’ professional capacity.
“This award is a push for us to do more in promoting security in our country,” he said.
Earlier, NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, disclosed that the union’s National Executive Council unanimously selected Ajayi for the prestigious award.
He attributed the decision to the DSS chief’s leadership in promoting constructive engagement with the media and the Service’s support for the NUJ National Security Summit held in Abuja in June.
Abdullahi said the award recognises Ajayi’s professionalism, commitment to public service and efforts at strengthening understanding, responsible communication and institutional cooperation between security agencies and the media.
He stressed that closer collaboration between the media and security institutions remains essential for safeguarding democracy, promoting accountability and enhancing national stability.
The ceremony ended with both the NUJ and the DSS reaffirming their commitment to deepening institutional partnerships aimed at promoting a secure, democratic and prosperous Nigeria through mutual respect, openness and sustained dialogue.
The event was attended by senior management officials of the Department of State Services and top executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, including the National Secretary, Comrade Achike Chude, and the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike.
