The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has honoured the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Ajayi, with its Man of the Year Award.

The award was one of the major highlights of the NUJ National Security Summit held in Abuja from June 18 to 19, 2026.

The summit, organised in partnership with the DSS, was themed: “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”

In a statement issued at the end of the summit by NUJ National President, Alhassan Abdullahi, the union said the award recognised Ajayi’s commitment to promoting openness, dialogue and mutual understanding between security institutions and the media.

According to the NUJ, the recognition was not only based on the DSS director-general’s professional achievements but also on his leadership approach, which it described as being centred on transparency, professionalism, inclusiveness and dedication to national development.

“The NUJ noted that the Man of the Year Award recognises not only the Director-General’s professional accomplishments but also his leadership style, which is anchored on transparency, professionalism, inclusiveness, and a shared commitment to national progress,” the statement read.

The union also praised the DSS for supporting the successful organisation of the summit and encouraging dialogue-driven solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges.

Participants at the event emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between the media and security agencies in protecting democracy, addressing misinformation and promoting national unity.

They also called for continuous engagement, improved capacity building and stronger communication systems between security institutions and media organisations.

The NUJ expressed appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the summit and reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism, press freedom and constructive partnerships with security agencies.