Veteran Journalist And Newswatch Co-Founder Dan Agbese Dies At 81
Chief Dan Agbese, a towering figure in Nigerian journalism and one of the co-founders of Newswatch magazine, passed away on Monday morning in Lagos at the age of 81.
Born on 12 May 1944 in Agila, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, Agbese’s career spanned several decades across Nigeria’s key media institutions. He served as editor of The Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian newspapers, and general manager of Radio Benue, Makurdi, before helping launch Newswatch in the 1980s.
Agbese held the role of Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch until April 2010. Beyond his editorial roles, he authored several books, such as Nigeria Their Nigeria, The Reporter’s Companion, and Style: A Guide to Good Writing, and maintained weekly columns in major papers like The Daily Trust and The Guardian.
The Agbese family, of the Ikpilogwu clan in Agila district, announced his passing in a statement describing him as “father, grandfather, mentor” and indicating that burial arrangements would be communicated in due course.
His death marks the end of an era for Nigerian journalism. Colleagues remember him for his incisive wit, disciplined writing style, and unwavering commitment to truth. The League of Nigerian Columnists described him as a “beacon of excellence” whose influence will continue to guide aspiring journalists.
Chief Agbese is survived by his wife, Rose Agbese, their six children, and seven grandchildren.
