Union Praises DSS DG For Intelligence Service, National Security

The Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for its contributions to Nigeria’s national security, intelligence gathering and protection of the country’s vital interests.

The union gave the commendation when it conferred its “Golden Era Pillar of Critical and Strategic Intelligence for National Development” award on the DSS director-general, Oluwatosin Ajayi, during a media-security critical engagement and strategic partnership meeting.

RATTAWU president, Prince Emeka Kalu, described Ajayi as a man of valour, integrity, competence and proven capacity, while also praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing him to lead the nation’s foremost domestic intelligence organisation.

Kalu said the DSS had continued to play a critical role in protecting Nigeria’s national interests through intelligence gathering and support for national security, particularly amid increasingly complex security threats and emerging technological challenges.

He described Ajayi as a “silent achiever” and a competent, detribalised Nigerian whose commitment to national service transcends ethnic, religious and political considerations.

According to him, the recognition was part of RATTAWU’s initiative to celebrate individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to national development, security, democracy, culture and the growth of Nigeria as the union prepares for its 50th anniversary.

Kalu said the DSS’s achievements in intelligence gathering and national security underscored the importance of placing competent Nigerians with integrity and professional capacity in strategic positions of national responsibility.

He stressed that the media and creative industry also had a major responsibility to complement the efforts of security agencies by promoting responsible communication, peace, unity and democratic values.

With Nigeria preparing for the forthcoming general elections, the RATTAWU president said the union would continue to use its platforms to sensitise citizens, combat misinformation, promote tolerance and encourage responsible participation in the democratic process.

He called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, the media, creative professionals and organised labour, saying such partnerships were essential to building a peaceful, united and cohesive Nigeria.

Responding, the DSS director-general expressed appreciation to the RATTAWU leadership for the recognition, describing the award as a significant gesture that would further encourage him and personnel of the Service to remain committed to their national responsibilities.

Ajayi urged RATTAWU to remain steadfast in promoting national cohesion, tolerance, peace and unity, describing these values as essential to Nigeria’s stability and development.

He also assured the union of his willingness to remain available for constructive engagement, particularly in areas capable of creating meaningful networks and partnerships between the DSS and RATTAWU.

The DSS boss expressed optimism that sustained engagement between the intelligence community and media and creative professionals would strengthen institutional cooperation, promote responsible communication and contribute to greater national cohesion.

The engagement formed part of RATTAWU’s activities on its roadmap to the celebration of the union’s 50th anniversary.