Folashade Adekaiyaoja has recently made headlines as she steps into the role of the first female Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Nigeria.

Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the history of the agency and reflects ongoing efforts to enhance gender representation in leadership positions within Nigeria’s security apparatus.

Here are 10 key points to know about Folashade Adekaiyaoja:

1. Folashade Adekaiyaoja has been appointed as the first female Deputy Director-General of the DSS, a groundbreaking achievement that underscores a shift towards gender inclusivity in high-ranking security roles in Nigeria.

2. Adekaiyaoja is originally from Kogi State, Nigeria. Her regional background adds to the diversity within Nigeria’s security institutions and highlights the representation of different ethnic groups in leadership roles.

3. President Bola Tinubu officially appointed Adekaiyaoja on January 14, 2025. This appointment is seen as part of broader efforts to reorganize and enhance the efficiency of the DSS.

4. The recommendation for her appointment came from DSS Director-General Oluwatosin Ajayi and was endorsed by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, indicating strong support from current leadership for her qualifications.

5. Adekaiyaoja’s appointment aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for reforming the DSS to improve its operational efficiency and effectiveness in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

6. Her elevation to this prominent position has been met with enthusiasm from both serving and retired officers of the DSS, who view her as highly qualified and capable of leading significant changes within the agency.

7. Adekaiyaoja is a Fellow of both the Defence College (fdc) and the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), showcasing her extensive training and expertise in security matters.

8. Under President Tinubu’s administration, there is a commitment to equip the DSS with advanced technology, including artificial intelligence tools, to bolster its operational capabilities against evolving security threats.

9. Adekaiyaoja’s role is expected to inspire more women to pursue careers in security and intelligence services in Nigeria, potentially leading to increased female representation in leadership roles within these fields.

10. As she embarks on this historic tenure, Adekaiyaoja will be closely monitored as she navigates the complexities of national security while advocating for reforms that could shape the future of Nigeria’s intelligence community.

Folashade Adekaiyaoja’s appointment not only marks a pivotal moment for the DSS but also serves as a beacon of progress for women in leadership within Nigeria’s security sector.