DSS Director-General Oluwatosin Ajayi Honored as 'Friend of The Media' by BON
The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, has received another prestigious media accolade, being adjudged "Friend of The Media" by the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON). This honor comes just five months after the International Press Institute (IPI) recognized him for championing press freedom in Nigeria.
Recognition at Nigeria Broadcasting Awards Night
BON announced this significant recognition during the Nigeria Broadcasting Awards Night held on Wednesday in Abuja. Mr. Ajayi was named among the special awardees, with the organization describing him as a thoroughbred professional who has demonstrated utmost respect for the media since his appointment by President Bola Tinubu in August 2024.
The award was received on behalf of the DSS DG by Bayo Awosemo, head of BON's steering committee, who was also honored for his exemplary leadership during the ceremony. This gesture highlights the collaborative spirit between security agencies and media organizations under Ajayi's leadership.
Distinguished Company of Honorees
Mr. Ajayi was recognized alongside several other prominent figures who have shown exceptional support for Nigeria's media industry:
- Dr. Dauda Lawal, Governor of Zamfara State
- Senator Bassy Otu, Governor of Cross River State
- Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation
- Mr. Obadiah Tohomdet, former Executive Secretary of BON
These individuals were celebrated for their substantial contributions to strengthening Nigeria's media landscape and fostering an environment conducive to journalistic excellence.
Continuing a Legacy of Media Engagement
This latest award builds upon Mr. Ajayi's previous recognition by the International Press Institute on December 2, when he received an award for upholding "Press Freedom" and fostering improved relationships with media practitioners. The IPI award, presented at their Annual Conference in Abuja, specifically acknowledged Ajayi's commitment to respecting journalists and enhancing the security agency's interactions with media representatives.
Official Remarks and Industry Significance
During the ceremony, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State expressed gratitude to the organizers for recognizing hard work, professionalism, and impactful societal contributions. "I believe the media has a role to play in shaping everything that we do, not just in Nigeria but all over the world," Lawal stated, emphasizing the critical importance of media in national development.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, who served as chief host for the event, commended BON for conceiving and sustaining this important initiative. As the umbrella body representing Chief Executive Officers of over 300 broadcast media houses across Nigeria, BON's recognition carries significant weight within the country's media industry.
This dual recognition from both IPI and BON within a five-month period underscores the transformative approach Mr. Ajayi has brought to the DSS's relationship with media organizations, marking a notable shift toward greater transparency and cooperation between security agencies and the press in Nigeria.
