Former DSS Chief Bichi Gets Four-Year NISS Chair Appointment

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

President Bola Tinubu has named Yusuf Magaji Bichi, the immediate past Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) as Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) for an initial four-year term beginning October 22, 2026.

The appointment followed a recommendation by the incumbent DSS Director-General, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, and will see Bichi succeed A.A. Gadzama, as chairman of the institute’s governing board.

Bichi’s appointment was approved by the President in accordance with Section 4 of the National Institute for Security Studies (Establishment) Act, 2019, according to a statement issued by Lilian Omo-Odigwe, Director of Coordination and Liaison at NISS, on Thursday.

“His appointment, is for an initial four year term, effective 22nd October, 2026 in accordance with Section 4 of the National Institute for Security Studies (Establishment) Act, 2019,” the statement said.

Bichi began his career in the Security Division of the Kano State Cabinet Office before his transfer of service in 1984.

According to the institute, his appointment would bring a wide range of extensive experience.

“Bichi’s appointment to Chair the NISS Board brings an extensive experience in intelligence, security administration, operational leadership and institutional training to the governance of the National Institute,” the statement added.

Bichi was appointed DSS Director-General by former President Muhammadu Buhari in September 2018 and served until August 2024, when Tinubu replaced him with Ajayi.