DSS to focus more on covert operations, reduce media involvement —New DG

The Department of State Services (DSS) plans to reduce its media presence and increase its covert operations for better intelligence gathering and national security, according to the agency’s new Director-General, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi.

Ajayi, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on August 26, 2024, and took office on August 28, 2024, outlined the changes in a press conference on Wednesday.

Ajayi stressed that the DSS should focus on its primary mission, which is covert operations to strengthen national security, rather than prioritizing public visibility.

“Security agencies need to concentrate on their core mandate, which is covert operations, to strengthen national security, rather than just being seen and heard,” Ajayi said.

In line with this new approach, the agency’s Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Dr. Peter Afunanya, has been reassigned, although his new role has not been disclosed. Dr. Afunanya’s replacement has not been announced.

Read also: President Tinubu appoints new directors general for NIA, DSS

At a press conference, Dr. Afunanya assured journalists that DSS remains committed to providing accurate and relevant information to the public as needed.

“This means that the DSS will continue to engage and connect with Nigerians through the media whenever the need arises. This does not mean that we want to operate in the dark or hide the truth from them,” he explained.

“We will continue to work with the Nigerian people whenever needed. However, we want to stick to our core mandate, which is covert operations to enhance the national security and safety of the Nigerian people,” the former senior officer said.

DSS posts will focus more on covert operations, less media involvement —New DG first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.