President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointment of new leaders for two major security agencies in Nigeria. Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed will now lead the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) as its Director-General, while Adeola Ajayi has been appointed as the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The announcement was made on Monday by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity. This change in leadership comes after the resignation of the previous heads of these agencies.
Ambassador Mohammed brings over twenty years of experience in foreign service to his new role. His career has included postings in various countries such as North Korea, Pakistan, Sudan, and Libya. His extensive experience is expected to be valuable in his new position at the NIA.
On the other hand, Adeola Ajayi, the new head of the DSS, has a strong background in the agency. He has held the position of State Director in several states across Nigeria, including Bauchi, Enugu, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Kogi. His rise through the ranks is expected to aid in his effective leadership of the DSS.
The changes come after the resignation of Ahmed Abubakar, the former NIA Director-General, who stepped down on Saturday night due to personal and family reasons. Abubakar had been appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018, with his tenure extended in December 2021. Similarly, the former DSS DG, Bichi, was also appointed by Buhari in 2018.
The statement added, “President Tinubu has charged the new security chiefs to work together to reposition the agencies for better results, tackle security challenges, and enhance collaboration with sister agencies and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
“The President has also thanked the outgoing Directors-General for their service to the nation and wished them success in their future endeavours.”
