The newly appointed Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, MON, officially assumed office on August 28, 2024. He was warmly welcomed by the outgoing DGSS, Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi, CFR, fwc, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the state of the Service. The two leaders reflected on their past collaborations, highlighting the mutual respect and admiration they have for each other.

In a joint address to the management and staff of the DSS, the outgoing DG urged everyone to fully support Mr. Ajayi in his new role, emphasizing the importance of cooperation for the success of the Service. Mr. Ajayi, in his remarks, called for unity of purpose among the staff and stressed the need for discipline and professionalism in carrying out their duties. He assured that he would engage with relevant stakeholders with the highest level of commitment and responsibility to tackle the challenges facing Nigeria’s economic, political, and security environments. His ultimate goal, he noted, is to foster the peace and stability necessary for national development.

A key moment during the ceremony was the formal handover of the DSS flag and other insignias of office by Alhaji Bichi to Mr. Ajayi, symbolizing the transition of leadership. Following the ceremony, Mr. Ajayi toured the National Headquarters, visiting various sections of the DSS. During the tour, he encouraged the staff on duty to remain vigilant, resourceful, dedicated, and loyal to the Service, the constituted authorities, and Nigeria as a whole.

In a noteworthy declaration, Mr. Ajayi pledged to refocus the Service towards a greater emphasis on covert operations and indicated a potential strategy of maintaining studied silence on certain sensitive matters.

The assumption of office by Mr. Ajayi marks a significant new chapter for the DSS as it continues to navigate the complex security landscape of the nation.