NUJ gives SSS DG ‘Man of the Year’ award

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has given its Man of the Year Award to the Director General of the State Security Service (SSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi. This award is to recognize his efforts in improving the relationship between the media and security agencies in Nigeria.

The announcement was made on Friday after the two-day NUJ National Security Summit at Abuja Continental Hotel. The summit began on June 18 and was organized by the union in partnership with the SSS. The theme for the summit was ‘Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.’

This is not the first time Mr Ajayi has received recognition from a journalism group. In December 2025, the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria honored him with a Commendation Award. They praised his commitment to press freedom, respect for journalists, and willingness to engage in dialogue.

The IPI recognized several actions by Mr Ajayi. These included the quick release of detained journalists, removing veteran journalist Lanre Arogundade from a long-term SSS watchlist, and taking action against SSS officers who arrested journalists. Mr Ajayi prefers to engage with the media rather than use force to settle disputes.

IPI Nigeria stated that this recognition aims to acknowledge Mr Ajayi's support for press freedom. They also hope it inspires him and other public officials to engage positively with the media.

The NUJ Award

In a statement on Friday, NUJ National President, Alhassan Abdullahi, said the award shows Mr Ajayi’s commitment to openness and dialogue between security institutions and the media.

He stated that under Mr Ajayi’s leadership, the SSS has worked closely with media stakeholders. This partnership has helped build trust, improve cooperation, and better coordination in security communications across the country.

Mr Abdullahi commented that the award recognizes Mr Ajayi's professional achievements and his leadership style focused on transparency, professionalism, inclusiveness, and a shared commitment to national progress.

The union also praised the SSS for backing the National Security Summit and for promoting dialogue to address Nigeria’s security issues.

Participants at the summit highlighted how important it is for journalists and security agencies to work together. They believe this collaboration is key to protecting democracy, promoting peace, and fighting misinformation.

They called for ongoing engagement, training, and stronger communication systems to build on the successes of current partnerships.

On the first day of the summit, IPI Nigeria President, Musikilu Mojeed, urged security agencies to avoid using arrests and intimidation against journalists.

Mr Mojeed, who is also the editor-in-chief of PREMIUM TIMES, said that democratic societies have enough ways to resolve conflicts between the media and the state.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, urged media organizations to stop giving terrorists attention in their stories. He said too much coverage of terrorists helps those who want to spread fear and chaos.