NUJ Names DSS DG Adeola Ajayi 'Man of the Year'

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has bestowed its prestigious Man of the Year Award upon Adeola Ajayi, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS). This significant recognition was revealed during the NUJ National Security Summit, which took place in Abuja from June 18 to 19, 2026. The summit, a collaborative effort between the NUJ and the DSS, focused on the theme “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”

Alhassan Abdullahi, the National President of the NUJ, confirmed this development in a statement issued on Sunday following the summit’s conclusion. The union stated that the award acknowledges Mr. Ajayi’s dedication to promoting transparency, open dialogue, and mutual understanding between Nigeria’s security apparatus and the media.

The statement from the NUJ further elaborated: “The NUJ noted that the Man of the Year Award recognises not only the Director-General’s professional accomplishments but also his leadership style, which is anchored on transparency, professionalism, inclusiveness, and a shared commitment to national progress.”

Beyond honouring its Director-General, the NUJ also lauded the DSS for its crucial support in ensuring the successful execution of the summit. The union highlighted the DSS’s role in championing dialogue-based solutions to the complex security challenges confronting Nigeria.

Attendees at the two-day summit collectively underscored the vital role of synergy between the media and security agencies. They affirmed that such collaboration is essential for safeguarding democratic principles, combating the spread of misinformation, and fostering national cohesion. Furthermore, participants advocated for continuous engagement, enhanced capacity building initiatives, and the establishment of more robust institutional communication frameworks.

The NUJ concluded by extending gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the summit’s success. The union reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to upholding responsible journalism, protecting press freedom, and maintaining constructive engagement with security institutions across the nation.