In a bold and historic move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Folashade Arinola Adekaiyaoja, fsi+, fdc, as the new Deputy Director-General (DDG) of the Department of State Services (DSS). This appointment, announced on January 14, 2025, marks the first time a DDG position has been filled at the DSS through a presidential ratification, drawing significant praise from both serving and retired officers of the agency.
A New Dawn for the DSS
Adekaiyaoja’s appointment is seen as a crucial step toward restoring professionalism and improving the operational efficiency of Nigeria’s foremost intelligence and security agency. Many experts and insiders in the security sector have welcomed the decision, with some highlighting the significance of the move in a country grappling with security challenges.
According to sources close to the development, Adekaiyaoja was appointed after receiving a strong recommendation from the DSS Director-General, Mr. Oluwastosin Ajayi, through the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. The decision to appoint a third Deputy Director-General was in alignment with the original structure of the DSS, which designates three positions for DDGs. This organizational move is seen as a return to the agency’s established framework, a decision that aims to streamline its operations and enhance career development opportunities for DSS officers.
“This is a monumental appointment, one that is not just a formality but a reflection of a larger effort to revitalize the DSS,” said a senior security officer who requested anonymity. “Adekaiyaoja is seen as highly qualified, and her appointment brings renewed hope that the DSS will regain its former glory as one of the most effective intelligence agencies.”
A Promising Career
Born in Kogi State, Adekaiyaoja brings a wealth of experience to the position. Described as a seasoned professional with a distinguished background in security management, her reputation precedes her. Many officers within the DSS and beyond believe her appointment signals a turning point for the agency, especially after a period of relative stagnation in its leadership structure.
Adekaiyaoja’s appointment has been celebrated for its potential to inspire greater dedication and professionalism within the agency. “Her experience and leadership capabilities make her an ideal fit for this role,” remarked another source within the DSS. “We are optimistic that she will bring much-needed change to the organization and help build a more resilient, forward-thinking security agency.”
The new DDG’s qualifications include multiple advanced degrees and certifications, including her fellowship with the Security Institute (fsi+) and the Defense College (fdc), both of which are highly regarded in the security community.
Reforming the DSS
This development comes on the heels of a promise made by President Tinubu during the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) Executive Intelligence Management Course 17 graduation in December 2024. At the event, the president reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the DSS and other security agencies with cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence-powered equipment, to better combat security challenges across Nigeria.
“Security is an evolving concern,” President Tinubu remarked through the NSA at the ceremony. “I am fully aware of the contemporary challenges faced by our security agencies, and I believe that with modern tools and proper collaboration, we can build a safer Nigeria.”
This statement underscores the administration’s proactive approach to security reform, which aligns with Adekaiyaoja’s appointment and the larger vision for DSS modernization.
A Legacy of Reform
Mr. Oluwastosin Ajayi, who assumed the office of DSS Director-General in August 2024, has been vocal about his commitment to reforming the DSS. In his first months in office, Ajayi announced sweeping reforms that he believes will transform the DSS into one of the most efficient covert agencies in the world. With Adekaiyaoja’s appointment, these reform efforts are expected to gain greater momentum, especially in areas of leadership and organizational structure.
Ajayi has also emphasized the need for enhanced synergy among Nigeria’s security agencies, recognizing that the country’s complex security issues require a collaborative approach. Adekaiyaoja’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering that cooperation within the DSS and with other agencies.
“It’s an exciting time for the DSS,” stated an insider within the agency. “We are all looking forward to how Adekaiyaoja will steer the agency towards becoming more modernized and efficient, especially with the new reforms coming from the DG.”
Optimism Amidst Challenges
The appointment of Adekaiyaoja has not only generated excitement within the DSS but has also caught the attention of national security analysts. Given the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, which range from terrorism and banditry to cybercrimes and ethnic conflicts, the appointment is seen as an opportunity to bring in fresh leadership that can adapt to emerging security threats.
Experts in security matters have commended the appointment as a step in the right direction. “The DSS has long been a critical player in Nigeria’s national security architecture. With the current leadership and the president’s backing for technological upgrades, the agency could be poised to make significant strides,” said Dr. Emeka Nwosu, a security expert based in Abuja.
However, with this optimism comes the recognition that the DSS is still grappling with challenges. In recent years, concerns have been raised about the agency’s ability to effectively handle new forms of terrorism and organized crime. Analysts stress that Adekaiyaoja will need to confront these challenges head-on, ensuring that the DSS remains both adaptable and resilient in the face of evolving threats.
Looking Ahead
As Folashade Adekaiyaoja steps into her new role, the expectations from both her colleagues and the public are high. Her appointment not only represents a significant milestone in the history of the DSS but also signals a new era of leadership and transformation within Nigeria’s security infrastructure. With a combination of modern technology, a restructured agency, and the leadership of experienced professionals, the DSS could very well become a cornerstone in the nation’s fight against insecurity.
President Tinubu’s vision for a revitalized DSS, bolstered by Adekaiyaoja’s leadership, could be the turning point needed to address the complex security challenges facing Nigeria today. The nation is watching closely, and many are hopeful that the new leadership will indeed bring about the change it desperately needs.
