Veteran Journalist Dan Agbese, Newswatch co-founder, dies at 81

One of the pioneering minds behind Newswatch magazine, Chief Dan Agbese, has passed away at the age of 81. His family made the announcement in a statement on Monday, confirming that he died earlier in the day.

“We hereby announce the passing away of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and mentor: Chief Dan Agbese, the Awan’Otun of Agila,” the family said. “Chief Agbese transited to eternal glory this morning, Monday, November 17, 2025. He was aged 81.” They added that burial arrangements would be communicated later.

Born on May 12, 1944, in Agila, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, Agbese was widely respected for his impactful journalism career and his satirical writing style. He served as editor of The Nigeria Standard and the New Nigerian newspapers and later became General Manager of Radio Benue, Makurdi.

He was also one of the founders of the groundbreaking Newswatch magazine and served as its Editor-in-Chief until April 2010. Beyond his newsroom roles, Agbese authored several books and maintained weekly columns in prominent newspapers such as Daily Trust and The Guardian. He also ran a media consultancy alongside Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed and Soji Akinrinade.

Chief Dan Agbese is survived by his wife, Rose Agbese, their six children, and seven grandchildren.