Veteran Journalist, Newswatch Co-Founder Dan Agbese Dies at 81

Dan Ochima Agbese, a towering figure in Nigerian journalism and one of the co-founders of the iconic Newswatch magazine, has passed away at the age of 81. Family sources confirmed that Chief Agbese died on Monday morning, November 17, 2025, in Lagos.

Born on May 12, 1944, in Agila, Benue State, Agbese was celebrated for his seminal contributions to journalism practice in Nigeria. He was a pioneering media practitioner who co-founded Newswatch in 1984 alongside the legendary Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed. Newswatch became a model for investigative journalism and set professional standards that resonated across the country.

Throughout his illustrious career, Agbese held prominent editorial roles including Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch until April 2010. He was also a former editor of The Nigeria Standard and the New Nigerian newspapers, as well as former general manager of Radio Benue. Beyond editing, he was a prolific columnist, known for his sharp prose and insightful commentary, writing weekly columns for Daily Trust and The Guardian until his passing.

As a distinguished author, Agbese penned several acclaimed books such as Nigeria, Their Nigeria, Fellow Nigerians, The Reporter’s Companion, Style: A Guide to Good Writing, and The Columnist’s Companion: The Art and Craft of Column Writing, which have been invaluable resources for journalists and writers.

Agbese was also involved in nurturing journalistic talent through a media consultancy he ran with notable colleagues, including Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed, and Soji Akinrinade, displaying his enduring commitment to the profession.

ADVERTISEMENT

His death has elicited tributes from media and professional organizations. Eze Anaba, president of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, described him as “one of the finest journalists Nigeria has ever produced,” emphasizing that his work helped keep the nation together during turbulent times. Ken Ugbechie, a former NGE secretary, praised Agbese as a “colossus” and a journalist of high ethical standards and rare daring.

Chief Dan Agbese leaves behind his wife, Rose, six children, and seven grandchildren. The family said details about his burial will be announced in due course.

His passing marks the loss of a media icon whose contributions shaped modern Nigerian journalism and whose sharp intellect and passion for the profession will be deeply missed by colleagues and the nation alike.