Security Summit : NUJ Names DSS Chief, Man Of The Year

The Nigeria Union of Journalists , NUJ, has named the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, as its Man of the Year, citing his role in strengthening collaboration between security agencies and the media.

The honour followed a two-day National Security Summit held in Abuja, where participants emphasised the importance of cooperation between journalists and security institutions in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

The NUJ said the award reflects the importance of partnership, openness and mutual respect in protecting lives, preserving democratic space and promoting national development.

The NUJ president announced this while briefing reporters on the outcome of the summit, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”

The event, organised by the NUJ in collaboration with the DSS, brought together media executives, journalists, security and intelligence chiefs, policymakers, academics, civil society representatives and development partners.

Delegates met from June 18 to 19, 2026, to discuss how strategic communication, responsible journalism and coordinated security responses can support national stability.

NUJ President Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi described the summit as timely, citing ongoing threats including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime and violent extremism.

He said national security requires a shared responsibility anchored on accurate reporting and coordinated institutional efforts.

Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris, who chaired the event, called for renewed trust and professionalism between the media and security agencies.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency cooperation and the use of modern technology.

In its citation, the NUJ said Ajayi’s leadership has encouraged regular engagement with the media, helping to reduce misinformation and build trust.

Speakers at the summit also highlighted the media’s role in supporting security efforts and safeguarding democratic values.

Professor Okey Ikechukwu stressed the importance of strategic communication in countering harmful narratives, while the International Press Institute of Nigeria’s President Musikilu Mojeed said press freedom and national security must be balanced through dialogue and due process.

President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Aisha Ibrahim called for greater inclusion of women in peacebuilding and security governance.

Participants said sustainable security requires a whole-of-society approach combining security operations with economic development, community engagement and effective communication.

They raised concerns about misinformation, drug abuse and the limited involvement of women and youth in peace efforts.

Recommendations from the summit included strengthening dialogue between the media and security agencies, improving transparency, enhancing fact-checking and expanding joint training.

Participants also called for increased investment in education, youth empowerment, media development and security infrastructure.

The NUJ thanked Ajayi and the DSS leadership for supporting the summit.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji