MAKURDI, Nigeria – Dan Agbese, one of Nigeria’s most respected journalists and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, died on Monday at the age of 81, his family announced.
In a statement issued by the Agbese family of the Ikpilogwu clan in Agila, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, the veteran journalist was described as “our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and mentor,” adding that “Chief Agbese transited to eternal glory this morning, Monday, November 17, 2025. He was aged 81.”
The family said that burial arrangements would be announced in due course.
Born on 12 May 1944 in Agila, Agbese built a distinguished career in journalism, becoming one of the profession’s most influential voices.
Known for his sharp wit and incisive analysis, he earned national recognition for his satirical columns and his commitment to strengthening public discourse.
Agbese served as editor of both The Nigeria Standard and the New Nigerian newspapers, before taking up the role of General Manager of Radio Benue in Makurdi.
His most defining professional achievement came in 1985 when, alongside Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed and Dele Giwa, he co-founded Newswatch magazine, a publication that reshaped investigative journalism in Nigeria.
He later became Editor-in-Chief of the magazine, a role he held until April 2010.
Even after leaving Newswatch, Agbese remained active in media practice.
He authored several books and maintained weekly columns in newspapers including Daily Trust and The Guardian.
He also ran a media consultancy with longtime colleagues Ekpu, Muhammed and Soji Akinrinade.
His death marks the end of a career that spanned more than five decades, during which he became widely regarded as a custodian of journalistic ethics and an advocate for press freedom.
Colleagues often cited him as a mentor whose contributions elevated reporting standards across the country.
Agbese is survived by his wife, Chief Rose Agbese, their six children and seven grandchildren.
As tributes began to emerge across Nigeria’s media community on Monday, many described him as a pioneering figure whose influence helped shape modern journalism.
Details of his burial are expected to be released once the family finalises arrangements.
