INTERVIEW: How We Are Reforming the SSS, Director General Oluwatosin Ajayi

After several failed attempts, Premium Times secured a rare interview with State Security Service Director General Oluwatosin Ajayi, who said he agreed to speak to improve relations between Nigeria’s media and security agencies.

Ajayi pointed to public communication by intelligence chiefs in other countries, including a televised briefing by the FBI director and annual public speeches by the head of MI6. He said such appearances can help agencies build public trust and explain the threats they face.

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I changed my mind to encourage the improved relationship between the media and security agencies in Nigeria.

The SSS is marking 40 years, but Ajayi said the anniversary would not bring a large public celebration. Intelligence organisations, he said, generally hold their celebrations internally, while Nigeria’s current national mood also argues against fanfare.

Ajayi said he had grown up within the service, joining as a cadet officer and rising through the ranks. During his two years as director general, he said, he had sought to build on the successes of previous administrations, correct weaknesses and strengthen the agency’s capabilities. He identified strict law enforcement as one result, citing convictions involving terrorism suspects and other criminals.

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Intelligence organisations are not disposed to public fanfare; we hold most of our celebrations internally.

He also highlighted improved cooperation with Nigerian security agencies and foreign allies, alongside greater attention to human rights. Where the SSS makes an unavoidable error, he said, it proactively compensates victims rather than waiting for litigation. In one case, after a court ordered N10 million in compensation for a man mistakenly shot, the service added another N10 million and covered his medical treatment.

Ajayi said the agency was also removing staff involved in unethical conduct. The SSS, he said, maintains zero tolerance for such behaviour, applies a strict disciplinary process and keeps the public informed about its response.

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We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards unethical conduct.