By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

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 collaboration between the media and Nigeria’s security agencies.

Speaking shortly after receiving the award on Monday, Mr. Ajayi expressed gratitude to the NUJ for the recognition, noting that the honour reflects the positive relationship that has developed between the DSS and the media since he assumed office.

“I deeply value this award coming from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, which is why I chose to receive it personally,” he said. “Since assuming office, the media has remained a trusted partner of the Service, and we will continue to work together in areas that advance national development and security.”

The DSS boss reiterated the Service’s commitment to press freedom and responsible journalism, recalling his public declaration that there would be “no arrest of journalists” under his leadership. He noted that the Service has remained faithful to that commitment and emphasized that the award serves as an encouragement to further strengthen efforts aimed at promoting national security and supporting professional journalism.

According to him, the recognition is not only a personal honour but also a call to deepen cooperation between security institutions and media organizations in the collective interest of the country.

Earlier, the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, disclosed that the union’s National Executive Council unanimously selected Mr. 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 efforts in fostering openness, strengthening media relations, and the DSS’s support for the NUJ National Security Summit held in Abuja in June 2026 were among the key considerations that informed the decision.

Comrade Abdullahi stated that the award recognizes exemplary public service, professionalism, and initiatives that promote mutual understanding, responsible communication, and institutional cooperation between the media and security agencies.

He added that the honour reflects the union’s appreciation of individuals who have demonstrated commitment to national development through inclusive engagement and support for democratic values.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment by the NUJ and the DSS to deepen collaboration in ways that will enhance national security, strengthen democratic governance, and promote a more informed and responsible society.

The event was attended by senior management officials of the DSS and top executives of the NUJ, including the National Secretary, Comrade Achike Chude, and the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike.