Renowned Veteran Journalist, Dan Agbese, Dies at 81

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

Respected Nigerian journalist and one of the founding editors of Newswatch Magazine, Dan  Agbese, is dead, marking the loss of a significant and towering figure in Nigeria’s media history.

Agbese was instrumental to the establishment of Newswatch in 1984 alongside other journalists, including Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed. The magazine, which launched its first issue on January 28, 1985, became known for its bold, investigative reporting.

Throughout his career, Agbese was celebrated for his insight and integrity. In 2019, then-President Muhammadu Buhari publicly honoured him on his 75th birthday, applauding his contributions to journalism and nationalism.

Described as a man whose calm intellect and steady craftsmanship shaped decades of public conversation, Agbese was born in 1944 in Agila, Benue State, growing  into a writer whose clarity of thought and disciplined prose made him a reference point for journalists across generations.

He studied Mass Communication at the University of Lagos and later earned a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University in New York, grounding his practice in both local awareness and global standards.

Before his name became synonymous with Newswatch, he had already earned a reputation as a serious newsroom professional. He edited The Nigeria Standard, later took charge at the New Nigerian, and ran Radio Benue as general manager.

But it was in 1984, when he joined Giwa, Ekpu and Mohammed to found Newswatch magazine, that his work took a defining turn. The magazine became a bold, reformist voice in a country struggling through military rule, and Agbese was part of the team that brought investigative rigour into weekly journalism.

Over the years, he served as managing editor, deputy editor-in-chief, and eventually editor-in-chief, leaving a clear imprint on the magazine’s tone, which was largely measured, probing, and never sensational.

Beyond the newsroom, he was an accomplished writer with a distinctly dry wit and an instinct for quiet satire. His columns were direct without being harsh, reflective without drifting into abstraction. Over time, they became lessons in how to speak truth with restraint.

He also wrote several books aimed at strengthening the profession—manuals on reporting, style and column writing that many younger journalists still turn to. In these works, he showed the same discipline he demonstrated in the newsroom: a concern for precision, for respect for readers, and for the craft of writing itself.

Agbese continued writing long after his formal career in the newsroom ended, staying engaged with national issues with the same disciplined voice he had honed for decades. His later years were marked by mentorship, commentary, and a continued defence of professional standards. He leaves behind his wife, children and grandchildren.

Also yesterday, a statement issued by the Agbese family of Ikpilogwu clan of Agila district, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State said, “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. Burial arrangements would be announced by the family in due course. Born May 12, 1944, in Agila, Chief Agbese was a renowned journalist and author, famous for his seminal contributions to journalism practice in Nigeria and renowned for his satirical columns,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the national Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has expressed deep grief over the death of the foremost editor and media icon,  Agbese.

This was contained in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Paul Mumeh, in Kano, where Mark described the passing of Agbese as a personal loss, noting that he has lost “a brother and a pathfinder of enormous value.” According to Mark, the Nigerian media fraternity has been thrown into deep mourning following the passing of one of its finest professionals.

He added:” His transition marks the end of an era defined by integrity, fearlessness, and an unwavering commitment to the truth.”

Mark further stated that Agbese was more than a newsroom leader. “He was a national asset whose pen shaped public discourse, elevated journalistic standards, and inspired generations of young reporters across the country.

“His career was distinguished by excellence, depth, fairness, and courage, earning him a revered place among Nigeria’s most respected media icons,” he added.

Mark said that Agbese’s death was a monumental loss not only to journalism but to the entire nation. He added:  “At a time when truth and accountability are more vital than ever, Nigeria has lost a voice that consistently stood for justice, ethical reporting, and national unity.”

Mark extended heartfelt condolences to Agbese’s family, colleagues, friends, and the entire media community, praying that they find strength and comfort in the legacy of a man who lived purposefully, worked tirelessly, and left an indelible mark on the profession he cherished.