President Bola Tinubu has praised the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Ajayi, for his outstanding commitment to press freedom, the protection of citizens’ rights, and the lawful execution of his duties.
The commendation came in a statement released on Sunday by the President’s Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
President Tinubu also congratulated Ajayi on receiving recognition as a champion of press freedom from the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI).
The DSS chief was honoured with a commendation award during the IPI’s Annual Conference, held on December 2, 2025, in Abuja.
The award recognised Ajayi’s dedication since assuming office in August 2024, highlighting his consistent respect for journalists and media organisations.
In presenting the award, the IPI stated that Ajayi’s leadership has significantly promoted an environment where the media can operate freely.
The organisation said the recognition was intended not only to celebrate his achievements but also to motivate him and encourage other officials and institutions to follow suit.
President Tinubu welcomed the IPI award, noting that the DSS under Ajayi has effectively shifted the agency’s approach toward the media.
He observed that, rather than being hostile toward journalists, the DSS has created an atmosphere that fosters dialogue, engagement, and mutual understanding with the public.
“The DSS is setting a new standard for cooperation between security agencies and the press.
”This example should inspire other security bodies to engage the media as partners, not adversaries,” President Tinubu said.
The President urged the DSS to sustain its efforts in cultivating a professional environment for journalists, enabling them to perform their constitutional role of holding public officials accountable.
He emphasised that the agency’s approach under Ajayi reflects a commitment to democratic principles and respect for civil liberties.
This recognition, according to Tinubu, underscored the importance of leadership that balances national security with respect for press freedom, setting a benchmark for other officials in the country’s security sector.
