President Bola Tinubu extended his congratulations on Sunday to Oluwatosin Ajayi, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), following his recognition as a champion of press freedom.
The honour was bestowed by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI).
The President’s message was delivered in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, titled ‘President Tinubu congratulates DSS DG Oluwatosin Ajayi on IPI Press Freedom Award’, a copy of which was given to Persecondnews on Sunday.
Ajayi was honoured with a commendation award at the annual conference of the journalism organization on December 2, 2025, in Abuja.
According to the IPI, “Since he was appointed Director-General of the Department of State Services in late August 2024, Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi has demonstrated an unmistakable commitment to press freedom and respect for journalists and media organisations.”
It added: “We do so not only to acknowledge his commendable press freedom credentials but also to encourage him to do even more and to inspire other officials, institutions, and organisations to emulate his example.”
Tinubu welcomed the IPI award and commended the DSS chief for ensuring press freedom, upholding citizens’ rights and discharging his duties within the bounds of the law.
“The President affirms that the DSS under Mr Ajayi is changing the narrative of hostility against members of the press and creating an atmosphere of dialogue and robust engagement with the civil populace,” Onanuga said.
Tinubu urged other security agencies and officials to emulate the DSS example and engage the media as partners rather than adversaries.
Tinubu called on the agency to continue creating a safe space for the press, reminding the DSS that the media is constitutionally empowered to act as a watchdog.
He stressed the importance of ensuring journalists can perform their professional roles without hindrance to ensure government transparency.
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