Nigeria has lost one of its most esteemed journalists, Dan Agbese, co-founder of Newswatch magazine, who passed away on Monday, November 17, 2025, in Lagos at the age of 81.
Widely celebrated for his sharp prose and pivotal role in shaping investigative journalism in Nigeria, Agbese’s contributions to the field spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s media landscape.
In a statement, the Agbese family of the Ikpilogwu clan in Agila, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, announced his passing: “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 will be announced in due course.”
Born on May 12, 1944, in Agila, Agbese earned degrees in mass communication and journalism from the University of Lagos and Columbia University, New York.
His career began at The Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian newspapers, where he served as editor, and he later became General Manager of Radio Benue in Makurdi.
However, his most defining achievement came in 1984 when he co-founded Newswatch magazine alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed.
The groundbreaking magazine set a new standard for investigative journalism in Nigeria, and Agbese served in various leadership roles, including Managing Editor, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, and Editor-in-Chief, a position he held until April 2010.
He was also an author of several acclaimed books, including 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.
He is survived by his wife, Chief Rose Agbese, six children, and seven grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian journalism, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and dedication to the craft.
