JUST-IN: Tinubu Appoints First Female Deputy DG of DSS

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Folashade Arinola Adekaiyaoja as the new Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS). This historic appointment marks the first time a female has held such a senior position within the agency.

The decision has been met with widespread praise from both serving and retired DSS officers, many of whom view it as a significant step toward restoring professionalism and efficiency within the Service. Sources close to the agency have noted that this appointment is part of broader efforts to restructure the DSS for greater effectiveness, in line with its original framework.

A Move Toward Efficiency

The DSS operates under a hierarchy that traditionally includes three deputy directors-general. Adekaiyaoja’s appointment, which followed the endorsement of the Director-General (DG) and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, is seen as a move to optimize the agency’s operations and enhance its capabilities. According to insiders, the presidential approval of the appointment is a landmark decision, as it aligns with the agency’s regulatory framework while also marking an unprecedented step in its history.

Adekaiyaoja, a native of Kogi State, has been widely celebrated within the DSS for her qualifications and professionalism. Many operatives of the agency are optimistic that her appointment will bring a fresh perspective to the organization, and they believe she is well-equipped to help steer the Service toward greater achievements.

Tinubu’s Focus on National Security

The appointment comes amid President Tinubu’s broader agenda to strengthen Nigeria’s security infrastructure. Last year, during the investiture ceremony for the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) Executive Intelligence Management Course 17 graduates, President Tinubu pledged to provide security agencies, including the DSS, with state-of-the-art, AI-powered equipment to tackle the country’s security challenges. This initiative reflects the president’s commitment to improving security and ensuring the safety of Nigerians.

Additionally, Mr. Oluwastosin Ajayi, the newly appointed DG of the DSS, had promised sweeping reforms upon his assumption of office in August 2024. These reforms are aimed at transforming the DSS into one of the most efficient covert security agencies globally, in line with President Tinubu’s vision for enhanced security service delivery.

A Historic and Pioneering Appointment

Adekaiyaoja’s appointment is seen as a historic and pioneering step in Nigeria’s security landscape, particularly in a male-dominated field. Her elevation to this high-ranking position is being viewed as a powerful symbol of gender inclusivity in governance and security, and it is expected to inspire more women to pursue leadership roles within the country’s security agencies.

As the DSS looks forward to implementing reforms and improving its service delivery, Adekaiyaoja’s appointment is seen as a significant part of a broader vision to modernize Nigeria’s security infrastructure and ensure the protection of its citizens.