In a strong endorsement of strategic collaboration between the media and security institutions, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has honoured the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, for his leadership in strengthening engagement between the nation’s intelligence community and the media.
The recognition came at the conclusion of a two-day National Security Summit jointly organised by the NUJ and the DSS in Abuja, where stakeholders highlighted the importance of partnership, professionalism and strategic communication in confronting Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
The honour by the NUJ comes in addition to an earlier recognition by the National Patriots Movement of Nigeria, which conferred on the DSS Director-General the prestigious National Patriots Distinguished Award for National Security Excellence, Strategic Intelligence Leadership and Democratic Stability.
According to the National President of the NUJ, Alhassan Yahaya, the award underscores the importance of partnership, openness and mutual respect between the media and security institutions in protecting lives, preserving democratic space and advancing nation-building.
He noted that under Ajayi’s stewardship, the DSS has maintained regular and constructive engagement with media stakeholders, helping to reduce suspicion, curb misinformation and foster cooperation in addressing national security concerns.
The union further described ethical journalism and responsible dissemination of information as indispensable to the country’s security and democratic development.
Chairman of the summit and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, commended both the media and security agencies for their complementary roles in safeguarding Nigeria.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency cooperation, technological advancement and community-based approaches to tackling insecurity.
Participants at the summit also applauded the DSS leadership for creating an atmosphere that encourages dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders.
National Patriots Commend DSS DG
Speaking on behalf of the National Patriots Movement of Nigeria, its President, Princess Gloria Adebajo-Fraser, MFR, described Adeola Ajayi as an accomplished intelligence professional whose strategic foresight, calm disposition and commitment to constitutional democracy have strengthened public confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture.
According to her:
“At a time when national security requires not only operational capability but also public trust and strategic communication, Mr. Adeola Ajayi has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and statesmanship. His leadership has promoted synergy among security institutions, encouraged responsible engagement with the media and contributed to democratic stability.”
Princess Adebajo-Fraser noted that intelligence agencies perform best when they enjoy the confidence of the people and the cooperation of critical stakeholders.
She said the National Patriots award was instituted to recognise Nigerians whose outstanding service contributes significantly to peace, national cohesion and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
“National security is not sustained by force alone. It is strengthened by trust, professionalism, intelligence and collaboration. Mr. Adeola Ajayi has shown that effective intelligence leadership must be complemented by transparency, strategic engagement and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian state,” she stated.
She urged journalists and citizens to support security agencies through responsible information sharing and by resisting misinformation capable of undermining national unity and stability.
As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, stakeholders at the summit agreed that stronger collaboration between the media and security institutions remains essential to preserving democracy, protecting lives and promoting national development.
In an age where misinformation can be as dangerous as violence itself, the growing partnership between the media and security agencies represents a vital pillar in Nigeria’s quest for peace, stability and sustainable nation-building.
Headlinenews.News Special Investigative Desk.
