Renowned journalist, Newswatch co-founder Dan Agbese dies at 81
Veterans Nigerian journalist, editor, and author, Chief Dan Agbese, has passed away at the age of 81. His family, the Agbese family of the Ikpilogwu clan in Agila, Ado Local Area of Benue State, announced his death in a statement on Monday.
“We hereby announce the passing away of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and mentor: Chief Dan Agbese, the Awan’Otun of Agila. Chief Agbese transited to eternal glory this morning, Monday, November 17, 2025. He was aged 81,” the family said, adding that burial arrangements will be communicated later.
Agbese was widely respected for his pioneering work in journalism and his influential satirical columns. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served as editor of The Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian newspapers and later became the General Manager of Radio Benue, Makurdi.
A major turning point in his career came in 1984 when he joined Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed to establish Newswatch, Nigeria’s first investigative newsmagazine. He went on to serve in key leadership roles, including Managing Editor, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, and ultimately Editor-in-Chief until April 2010.
A prolific writer, Agbese authored several notable books—Nigeria Their Nigeria, Fellow Nigerians, The Reporter’s Companion, Style: A Guide to Good Writing, and The Columnist’s Companion—works that remain essential reading for journalists nationwide.
Beyond writing, he played a significant role in mentoring young journalists and consulting for media organisations through a partnership with Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Mohammed, and Soji Akinrinade.
Chief Dan Agbese is survived by his wife, Chief Rose Agbese, six children, and seven grandchildren. His legacy endures through his immense contributions to journalism, his intellectual depth, and his unwavering commitment to truth.
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