Who is Adeola Ajayi? 5 Key Facts About Nigeria’s New DSS Director-General

Nigeria’s security landscape has undergone a significant transformation with the appointment of Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi as the new Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Ajayi takes over from Yusuf Bichi, who was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018. The presidency emphasized that Ajayi’s appointment marks a crucial moment for the DSS, a critical entity in national security and intelligence gathering.

As the new DSS chief, Ajayi is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies, particularly in enhancing internal security and tackling current and emerging threats in Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu expressed his confidence in Ajayi’s ability to reposition the DSS for improved performance, stating, “ I expect the new security chief to work professionally and bring his experience to bear in tackling the security challenges bedevilling the country through enhanced collaboration with sister agencies.”

Here are five key things to know about Adeola Ajayi, the new DSS boss:

1. Experienced Intelligence Officer

With over three decades of experience in intelligence gathering and security management, Adeola Ajayi brings substantial expertise to his new role. His long tenure in the DSS, beginning as a cadet officer in 1990, has seen him rise through the ranks due to his dedication and keen insight into national security matters.

2. Proven Leadership

Prior to his appointment, Ajayi held several key positions within the DSS, including Director of Operations. His leadership has been characterized by strategic reforms aimed at enhancing the agency’s effectiveness in addressing contemporary security challenges. Ajayi has served as a state director in several states, including Enugu, Rivers, Bauchi, Kogi, and Bayelsa.

3. International Intelligence Experience

Known for his diligent and analytical approach, Ajayi has undergone extensive training both in Nigeria and abroad, equipping him with the necessary skills for his new role. DSS spokesperson Peter Afunanya described him as “diligent, resilient, sophisticated, proactive, and analytical,” highlighting Ajayi’s capacity and goodwill as he steps into his new position.

4. Focus on Inter-Agency Collaboration

Ajayi has been a strong advocate for better cooperation between the DSS and other security agencies. His efforts in fostering inter-agency collaboration are evident from his previous assignments in various states, where he emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

5. Visionary Approach to Security

Ajayi is committed to strengthening the DSS’s capacity to anticipate and counter threats. He has been tasked with embracing technology and intelligence-driven strategies to ensure national security and stability.

Understanding the DSS’s Role in Nigeria’s Security

The DSS’s primary responsibilities within Nigeria include counter-intelligence, medical intelligence, economic intelligence, internal security, counter-terrorism, and surveillance. The agency also investigates serious crimes against the state and is charged with protecting senior government officials, including the president, vice president, state governors, and visiting heads of state and government, along with their families.