NUJ confers Man of the Year Award on DSS DG Ajayi for strengthening media–security collaboration

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced the conferment of its prestigious Man of the Year Award on the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, in recognition of his leadership and contributions to improving collaboration between the media and security institutions in Nigeria.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued at the end of the NUJ National Security Summit held in Abuja from June 18 to 19, 2026, in collaboration with the DSS under the theme “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”

According to the NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, the award reflects Ajayi’s commitment to promoting dialogue, openness and mutual understanding between security agencies and the media at a time when effective communication is considered crucial to national stability.

The union said the DSS under his leadership had consistently demonstrated willingness to engage with media stakeholders, adopting a partnership-driven approach that has helped strengthen trust and improve coordination in Nigeria’s security communication space.

It added that the award recognises not only his professional achievements but also his leadership style, which the NUJ described as anchored on transparency, professionalism, inclusiveness and national development priorities.

The NUJ also commended the DSS for supporting the successful hosting of the security summit and for promoting dialogue-based strategies in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

Participants at the summit reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between the media and security agencies in safeguarding democracy, countering misinformation, promoting peacebuilding and strengthening national cohesion. They also called for sustained engagement, capacity building and stronger communication frameworks to deepen existing partnerships.

The union expressed appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the summit and reiterated its commitment to responsible journalism, press freedom and constructive engagement with security institutions in the national interest.