DSS launches community projects to curb terrorism through education

The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, has unveiled a community-focused initiative aimed at tackling terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria through education and social infrastructure.

The DSS is supporting the establishment of schools, worship centres, and sports facilities nationwide to engage communities and counter extremist ideologies.

Ajayi’s remarks were conveyed by retired DSS Director, Alhaji Ahmed Zalmar, during the commissioning of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Darul’Ilm Centre for Islamic Studies in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State over the weekend.

He explained that these projects are designed to foster trust and reduce grievances among vulnerable populations.

According to Zalmar, “The DGSS, in his usual generosity, opted to support the welfare of disadvantaged groups through initiatives such as constructing schools, religious centres, and sports complexes.”

He emphasized that Ajayi has never diverted official or operational funds for these philanthropic activities, instead relying on corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributions and support from private stakeholders.

Ajayi noted that the DSS’s role extends beyond intelligence gathering, encompassing efforts to address the underlying causes of insecurity.

“These efforts are part of a broader mission to strengthen national security by improving the socio-economic conditions of at-risk communities,” he stated.

The newly inaugurated Islamic studies centre, dedicated to serving orphans and underprivileged children, was named after President Bola Tinubu to honour his commitment to education and development.

The project was entirely funded and donated by Ajayi, who is a Christian—an act that has been praised as a powerful gesture of interfaith harmony and national unity.

Leading the commissioning ceremony, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, hailed the centre as a “legacy project” that embodies religious tolerance and the spirit of unity.

“When people of different religions and backgrounds collaborate for the common good, they help build the Nigeria we all aspire to,” he said.

The Sultan also commended President Tinubu for appointing Ajayi to head the DSS, describing it as a decision that has fostered greater cooperation and understanding among Nigerians.

He called on citizens to rise above religious and ethnic divides and focus instead on shared values and the collective development of the nation.

“This project is a beacon of hope,” the Sultan added. “If replicated across the country, initiatives like this will help steer Nigeria toward a more united and prosperous future.”

Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, who also spoke at the event, lauded the DSS-led initiative, saying it reflects the Tinubu administration’s drive for inclusive growth and youth development.

“With Nigeria poised to contribute significantly to the global workforce by 2050, investing in education is essential,” he said.

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, represented by his deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting education and reducing poverty and insecurity.

Other prominent guests at the event included the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Bamalli; Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Dahiru Liman; NSCDC Commandant-General, Ahmed Audi; and several current and former DSS directors.

The Sultan encouraged other wealthy Nigerians to take a cue from Ajayi by investing in the education of vulnerable children.

“Helping orphans and the less privileged access education is a noble act that only God can truly reward,” he said.