The Nigeria Union of Journalists (Nigeria Union of Journalists) has honoured the Director-General of the Department of State Services (Department of State Services), Adeola Ajayi, for what it described as his leadership in strengthening cooperation between security agencies and the media.
The award was presented at the end of a two-day National Security Summit organised by the NUJ in partnership with the DSS in Abuja, according to proceedings from the event.
NUJ National President, Al-Hassan Yahaya, said the decision to honour Ajayi reflects the union’s belief that partnership, openness and mutual respect between the media and security institutions are essential for protecting lives, sustaining democracy and supporting nation-building.
He said that under Ajayi’s leadership, the DSS has maintained regular engagement with media stakeholders, creating channels aimed at reducing suspicion, tackling misinformation and improving cooperation in addressing security challenges.
“The prize is a recognition of Ajayi’s leadership in fostering engagement, transparency, and partnership between the media and security institutions,” the NUJ stated, adding that such collaboration remains critical to national stability.
The union further stressed that national security is a collective responsibility requiring ethical journalism, accurate reporting and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who chaired the summit, praised both the media and security agencies for their complementary roles in safeguarding the country.
Mohammed Idris also called for professionalism, deeper trust and continued cooperation, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency coordination, technological advancement and community-based security strategies.
Participants at the summit reiterated that the media must continue to support security efforts through responsible reporting and effective communication.
The summit concluded with commendations for Ajayi and the DSS leadership for fostering an environment that enabled constructive dialogue on Nigeria’s security challenges.
