The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced the redeployment of Peter Afunanya, its Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, as part of a routine service exercise.
Afunanya, who has served as the spokesperson for the secret police for over six years, shared the news at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday.
Although Afunanya did not disclose his next assignment, he emphasized that his redeployment is a standard procedure within the service, aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness.
Afunanya’s tenure as the DSS spokesperson came at a critical time when the agency was grappling with public perception challenges. His appointment followed a period during which the DSS had no official spokesperson, after the compulsory retirement of Marilyn Ogar in 2015.
Ogar was forced to retire following allegations of bribery and professional misconduct, which she has consistently denied.
Reflecting on his time in the role, Afunanya expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve his country in such a pivotal capacity.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the DSS and to Nigeria, vowing to continue serving with “love, loyalty, honour, and glory” in any future position.
Afunanya’s redeployment comes shortly after the appointment of Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi as the new Director-General of the DSS. Ajayi, who took office last Thursday, was previously the DSS Director in Kogi State.
In his inaugural address, Ajayi pledged to refocus the agency on covert operations and strategic silence, while also committing to addressing the complex economic, political, and security challenges facing Nigeria.
As the DSS transitions under new leadership, Afunanya’s departure from his public relations role marks the end of a significant chapter in the agency’s efforts to rebuild its public image.
His contributions over the past decade have been instrumental in shaping the narrative around the DSS, and his successor will have big shoes to fill as the agency continues to navigate the complexities of national security in Nigeria.
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