Emmanuel lkpeama
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has congratulated DSS Director-General, Oluwatosin Ajayi, on winning the International Press Institute (IPI) Press Freedom Award, saying it’s a well-deserved honour.
In a statement, Ododo praised Ajayi’s leadership, professionalism, and respect for democratic values, noting the award affirms his exceptional qualities.
He recalled Ajayi’s outstanding tenure in Kogi State, saying “He served with distinction, diligence, and uncommon professionalism.”
Ododo commended Ajayi’s commitment to national security and press freedom, saying his leadership redefines security-media relations, promoting cooperation and mutual understanding.
He expressed his delight that the IPI recognised the DSS under Ajayi’s leadership for promoting constructive engagement with the media and fostering an environment of dialogue, accountability, and mutual respect between security institutions and journalists.
“Kogi State is particularly delighted with this recognition because we’ve always had faith in Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi.
“He served our State with distinction, diligence, and uncommon professionalism. His current achievements at the national level are a reflection of the same discipline, fairness, and strategic leadership we witnessed during his time in Kogi,” the Governor said.
Governor Ododo commended the DSS DG for his calm disposition, intellectual depth, respect for institutional processes, and unwavering commitment to national security without compromising citizens’ rights and press freedom.
He added that Mr. Ajayi’s leadership has continued to redefine the relationship between security agencies and the media, helping to dismantle long-standing perceptions of hostility and replacing them with cooperation and mutual understanding.
Ododo reaffirmed Kogi State’s support for initiatives that strengthen democratic institutions, promote press freedom, and encourage security agencies to operate within the ambit of the law while effectively safeguarding national security.
He wished the DSS Director-General continued success, good health, and greater accomplishments in his service to the nation.
The Kogi State Government urged other security agencies to continue to engage the media as partners in nation-building.
