President Bola Tinubu has appointed new Directors-General for two of Nigeria’s key intelligence agencies—the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
These appointments come as part of the President’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s security apparatus and address Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.
The newly appointed Director-General of the NIA is Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed, a seasoned diplomat with nearly three decades of experience in the intelligence community.
Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, an experienced intelligence officer, has been appointed the new Director-General of the DSS. Both appointments were made following the resignation of their predecessors, who had served under previous administrations.
Ambassador Mohammed brings to his new role a wealth of experience from his long-standing career in Nigeria’s foreign service. He joined the NIA in 1995 and has since held various important positions, including his most recent role as Nigeria’s ambassador to Libya.
His career path has seen him serve in several countries, including North Korea, Pakistan, and Sudan, as well as in critical positions within Nigeria, such as the State House in Abuja.
The ambassador is a 1990 graduate of Bayero University, Kano, where he earned his degree before embarking on his journey in diplomacy and intelligence.
The new DSS Director-General, Mr. Adeola Ajayi, also boasts an impressive career in intelligence. He joined the DSS in 1990 as a cadet officer and has risen through the ranks to become one of the most respected figures within the service.
Over the years, Ajayi has held various command positions, including State Director of Security in Bauchi, Enugu, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Kogi States.
Mr. Ajayi’s extensive training, both locally and internationally, in areas such as security leadership, critical thinking, and human resources management, has equipped him with the skills necessary for the challenges that lie ahead.
Colleagues describe him as “diligent, resilient, and proactive,” with a keen analytical mind that has helped him navigate the complexities of Nigeria’s security landscape.
Dr. Peter Afunanya, the Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications at the DSS, expressed confidence in Mr. Ajayi’s ability to lead the service.
“Mr. Ajayi is a thoroughbred and versatile intelligence officer who comes to this position with immense goodwill and a strong capacity for leadership,” Dr. Afunanya said. “We are confident that under his leadership, the DSS will continue to uphold its mandate of safeguarding national security.”
President Tinubu has charged both Ambassador Mohammed and Mr. Ajayi with the critical task of repositioning their respective agencies to better address Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
The President emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between the NIA, DSS, and other security agencies, as well as alignment with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
In his statement, President Tinubu expressed his confidence in the new appointees, noting their wealth of experience and proven track records. “These appointments are not just about filling positions; they are about bringing in leaders who can deliver results,” the President said.
“Our nation faces significant security challenges, and I expect both Ambassador Mohammed and Mr. Ajayi to bring their extensive experience to bear in tackling these issues head-on.”
The President also extended his gratitude to the outgoing Directors-General for their service to the nation, wishing them success in their future endeavors.
