President Tinubu Praises DSS DG Ajayi Following IPI Press Freedom Award

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, following his recognition as a defender of press freedom by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI).

According to Ireporter Online, Ajayi was honoured with a commendation award during the IPI Annual Conference held on December 2, 2025, in Abuja. The journalism body acknowledged his consistent commitment to media freedom and his respectful engagement with journalists and media organisations since assuming office in August 2024.

In its citation, the IPI explained that the award was not only in recognition of Ajayi’s positive track record on press freedom but also intended to motivate him to further strengthen these values while inspiring other public officials, institutions, and organisations to follow suit.

Reacting to the honour, President Tinubu, in a statement conveyed through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, welcomed the recognition and commended the DSS leadership for safeguarding press freedom, protecting citizens’ rights, and discharging its constitutional responsibilities in accordance with the rule of law.

The President noted that under Ajayi’s leadership, the DSS has made notable efforts to reshape its relationship with the media by moving away from a history of perceived hostility toward journalists and embracing dialogue, transparency, and constructive engagement with the public.

President Tinubu urged other security agencies and public office holders to adopt a similar approach by viewing the media as partners in governance rather than adversaries, stressing that a free, responsible, and vibrant press remains essential to democratic accountability.

He further encouraged the DSS to sustain its ongoing efforts to create an enabling environment for journalists and media practitioners to carry out their duties effectively, in line with constitutional provisions that empower the press to hold public officials accountable.