DSS DG, Ajayi Honoured with Nation Builder Award for Excellence in Intelligence Leadership

The Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, has been honoured with the Nation Builder Award for Excellence in Intelligence Leadership and National Security.

The honour was conferred on him at the Nigerian Nation Builders Annual Conference and Awards 2026 held at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja.

The event was organised by the National Council for Civil Society Organisations and Vision One Leadership Development Initiative to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary and to celebrate distinguished Nigerians who have contributed to peace, unity, security and nation-building.

The organisers expressed appreciation to the DSS DG for honouring their invitation and celebrating Nigeria at 66 with the civil society community despite his tight national schedule.

In his remarks, the National President of NACCSO and VOLDI, Rt. Comrade Emmanuel Johnny, described Ajayi as a silent achiever, a thoroughbred professional and a reform-minded intelligence chief who has redefined intelligence leadership in Nigeria.

Johnny said under his watch, the DSS has recorded outstanding successes in intelligence-led operations, including the disruption of terrorist cells, kidnapping networks, arms trafficking rings and cybercrime syndicates, as well as strategic intelligence support that aided high-profile international joint operations.

He further lauded the DG’s reforms built on strict adherence to law enforcement standards, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, accountability, respect for civil liberties including his firm ban on operatives meddling in civil disputes and no harassment or arrest of journalists, and comprehensive internal restructuring for efficiency.

The award was presented as a mark of appreciation from the civil society community for his patriotic service, exemplary leadership and contributions to national security and nation-building.

The leadership of NACCSO and VOLDI congratulated the DSS DG on the honour and prayed for greater wisdom, strength and success as he continues to serve the nation.

The civil society community also pledged continued loyalty, solidarity and support to the DSS and other security agencies through advocacy against crime.