From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has recognized the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, with its National Merit Award for his contributions to national security, peace, and stability.
This was announced through a statement provided to the media in Kaduna.
The statement said that the award, titled “Icon of Peace, Safety, and Progress in Nigeria,” was presented by the Immediate Past President of NAPS, Comrade Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, at the Service Headquarters in Abuja.
Comrade Eshiofune Paul Oghayan was re-presented by Mr. Benjamin Bulus, and the Students Desk Officer, Mr. Agada Moses, was present at the ceremony, along with other senior officers of the Service.
The statement noted that the presentation was originally scheduled for the NAPS Wrap-Up National Polytechnic Students Summit, held on July 23, 2026, at the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City, but was postponed due to the DG’s unavoidable absence.
According to Oghayan, the honour recognized Ajayi’s leadership and the DSS’s ongoing efforts to protect lives and property, and to create a secure environment for students, campuses, and communities across Nigeria.
The organization specifically commended the Service for its proactive intelligence gathering, assessment, and sharing, as well as its effective coordination among agencies.
“NAPS acknowledged that the peaceful conduct of its National Convention, among other student activities, was significantly supported by the security measures and intelligence framework provided by relevant security agencies,” the statement said.
Oghayan added that the visit also served as an opportunity to introduce the new NAPS leadership to the DSS officially and to seek ongoing guidance and cooperation.
He urged the new leadership to maintain the relationship, based on mutual respect, patriotism, constructive dialogue, and a shared commitment to national peace and development.
The former NAPS president emphasized that security agencies should be viewed not only as enforcement bodies but also as strategic partners in creating an environment where young Nigerians can learn, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress.
On behalf of NAPS, Oghayan officially expressed a vote of confidence in Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi’s leadership. He praised the DG’s professionalism and the Service’s efforts in intelligence collection, threat prevention, national security coordination, and the provision of timely and useful intelligence to relevant agencies.
The organization also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its initiatives in the education sector, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), as well as broader efforts to expand access to education and improve funding.
NAPS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, responsible citizenship, national unity, and strong engagement between students and security agencies.
The association prayed for ongoing success, wisdom, courage, and protection for the Director-General and the entire DSS team as they carry out their national duties.
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