By Sharon Akuboh, Abuja
The conferment of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Man of the Year 2026 Award on the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, MON, has been described as a significant affirmation of the growing partnership between Nigeria’s security agencies and the media in advancing national development.
Receiving the prestigious honour on Monday, the DSS Director-General said the recognition from the NUJ was particularly meaningful, noting that it reflected the trust and cooperation that have continued to flourish between the Service and media practitioners since he assumed office.
According to Mr. Ajayi, the award represents not only a personal honour but also an acknowledgement of the collective efforts by the DSS and the media to promote national security through constructive engagement.
“I so much value this award coming from the Nigeria Union of Journalists; hence the reason I chose to receive it personally,” he said.
The DSS boss emphasized that the media has remained a dependable partner of the Service, stressing that the existing relationship would continue to be strengthened in the interest of national development and public safety.
Reiterating the agency’s commitment to press freedom and responsible journalism, Mr. Ajayi recalled his public declaration that there would be “no arrest of journalists,” affirming that the DSS has remained faithful to that commitment. He added that the recognition would further inspire the Service to intensify its efforts toward safeguarding the nation while supporting initiatives that build the professional capacity of journalists.
Earlier, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, disclosed that the union’s National Executive Council unanimously selected Mr. Ajayi as the recipient of the 2026 Man of the Year Award.
He explained that the honour was in recognition of the DSS Director-General’s exemplary leadership, commitment to constructive media engagement, and the Service’s outstanding support for the successful hosting of the NUJ National Security Summit in Abuja in June.
According to the NUJ President, the award celebrates professionalism, dedication to public service, and initiatives that have strengthened mutual understanding, responsible communication, and institutional cooperation between the media and security agencies.
He noted that fostering trust and collaboration between both institutions remains critical to deepening democracy, enhancing national security, and promoting sustainable development.
The ceremony ended with a renewed commitment by the NUJ and the DSS to sustain strategic collaboration that promotes openness, professionalism, and a secure, democratic, and prosperous Nigeria.
The event attracted senior management officials of the DSS alongside members of the NUJ National Executive Council, including National Secretary, Comrade Achike Chude, and Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike.