The State Security Service (SSS) has established the Directorate of Public Relations and Strategic Communications (DPRSC) and appointed Peter Afunanya as the pioneer director.

A statement from the Directorate on Wednesday in Abuja said the establishment of DPRSC was part of efforts by the SSS to sustain its engagement with citizens and the public.

The statement said the directorate was also to deepen democratic governance, transparency, and accountability in its service delivery.

It said Mr Afunanya, the erstwhile public relations officer of SSS, would head the directorate as the supervising director and also be in charge of the service’s public communications.

The statement said the appointment took effect on Sept. 26, adding that SSS had commended its Director General, Yusuf Magaji Bichi, for the initiative to expand and appoint Mr Afunanya to pilot the directorate.

“Afunanya comes to his new role with over 20 years of vast and rich experience in intelligence analysis, threat assessment, security administration, VIP protection/detailing, investigation, and counterterrorism.

“The new director is also experienced in open source intelligence management, background checks, security vetting, surveillance, security sector/intelligence governance, democratic accountability in law enforcement, educational research, and peace advocacy.

“He has also gathered experience in alternative dispute resolution, development communication, interagency cooperation and liaison, joint operations, teaching, public and media relations, reputation management, and strategic communication,” the statement said.

Mr Afunanya holds a Ph.D. in security and strategic studies from Nasarawa State University, Keffi, and a Master’s degree in peace and strategic studies from the University of Ilorin.

It said the new director obtained a Master of Arts degree in English Language from the University of Uyo after graduating from Abia State University, Uturu, with a second class upper division in English Language.

(NAN)