Dan Agbese (1944-2025)

Veteran journalist and one of the founding editors of the defunct Newswatch magazine, Dan Agbese, died on November 17 at the age of 81. In his death, Nigeria has lost a consummate journalist and insightful columnist. Agbese was a fearless and courageous journalist who spoke truth to power. The celebrated media icon also believed in justice and fairness. He was a great mentor to many journalists. He surely belonged to an era that truly and ethically defined the Nigerian journalism. No doubt, he contributed immensely to the vibrancy and growth of the nation’s journalism. He should be counted among journalism greats in the country and Africa. He should be remembered for his fearless and incisive writings.

The great wordsmith, essayist and prose-stylist, was born on May 20, 1944, in Ajila, in Ado Local Government Area of Benue State. His death is a great loss to Nigerian journalism. Agbese attended Government Teachers’ Training College, Keffi, between 1960 and 1962. He began his journalism career as a staff writer with the defunct New Nigerian newspaper under the mentorship of Malam Adamu Ciroma, its first indigenous editor (1967-1970).  He also worked at The Nigeria Standard, Jos, as the chief sub-editor (1974-1976).

The distinguished journalist and ace columnist studied journalism at the University of Lagos (1970-1973), Thomas Foundation, Cardiff, United Kingdom (1976). He also attended the Graduate School of Journalism, Columbia University, New York City (1977-1977) for his master’s degree in journalism. Agbese was the General Manager of Radio Benue, Makurdi (1980); and Special Adviser and Director of Information, Benue State (1980-1982) as well as the editor of New Nigerian newspaper, Kaduna (1982-1984).

He together with Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu and Yakubu Mohammed founded the Newswatch magazine in 1984. With time, the magazine redefined Nigerian journalism and dictated its tone and pace for years. Agbese became the Co-founder/Managing Editor, Newswatch magazine, Lagos (1984-1986); Deputy Editor-in-Chief/Deputy Chief Executive, Newswatch, Lagos (1986-1994); and Editor-in-Chief, Newswatch, Lagos (1994-2010).

The late journalist was also a prolific author. His books include The Reporter’s Companion, The Columnist Companion, Style: A Guide to Good Writing, Fellow Nigerians: Turning Points in the Political History of Nigeria (1966-1999; The Art and Craft of Column Writing and The Energy Crises in Nigeria.

Since his passage, prominent Nigerians have lauded his contribution to Nigerian journalism, public discourse, and nation building. President Bola Tinubu, who expressed deep grief over the passing of Chief Dan Agbese, said, “Dan Agbese was not just a journalist; he was an institution. His pen shaped public opinion, strengthened democratic discourse, and inspired a generation of media practitioners.” “He served Nigeria with integrity, courage, and commitment to truth and justice. His contribution to the evolution of modern Nigerian press will be remembered forever,” the President stated.

Also, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, described Agbese’s death as “a monumental loss to Nigeria’s journalism and to all who value truth, integrity and courageous storytelling.” According to the Senate President, “his writings shaped national conscience, challenged power, and illuminated the path of democracy. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists yet unborn.”

Similarly, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, said that Agbese’s death was a great loss to journalism and the entire nation stressing that “his career was distinguished by excellence, depth, fairness, and courage, earning him a revered place among Nigeria’s most respected media icons.” “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 stated.

Agbese gave his life to journalism and made giant strides in his chosen profession. He made enormous contribution to the growth and development of journalism in the country. He literally trained and mentored many Nigerian journalists. His insightful columns helped in enriching our national discourse and his concise analysis of issues helped in shaping the policies of the government. Thus, he also helped in the political development of the country.

For his immense contribution to the development and growth of Nigerian journalism as well as nation building, the federal government should immortalise him. We commiserate with his family, the media, the Nigerian government and the government and people of Benue State over the great loss. May God grant his soul eternal repose.