The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has honoured the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Ajayi, with its Man of the Year 2026 award, recognising his efforts in strengthening collaboration between Nigeria’s security agencies and the media.
Receiving the award, Ajayi described the recognition as a testament to the growing partnership between the nation’s security institutions and the press, stressing that effective collaboration remains essential to promoting national security, public trust and responsible information sharing.
The DSS Director-General said the honour reflects the shared commitment of both the security community and the media to safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic values while ensuring citizens are accurately informed on issues of national importance.
He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to fostering constructive engagement with journalists, noting that a professional relationship between the media and security agencies is critical to tackling misinformation, enhancing public confidence and supporting national stability.
The NUJ said the award acknowledges Ajayi’s contributions to improving cooperation between the media and security institutions, describing his leadership as one that has encouraged greater understanding, dialogue and mutual respect.
The recognition comes amid sustained calls for stronger collaboration between the press and security agencies in addressing the country’s evolving security challenges while upholding the principles of press freedom and responsible journalism.
