President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Chief Dan Agbese—renowned journalist, celebrated prose stylist, author, and co-founder of the iconic Newswatch weekly magazine.
Chief Agbese, the Awan’Otun of Agila in Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, reportedly died on Monday in Lagos at the age of 81.
In a statement issued Tuesday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Agbese’s death as “painful” and a monumental loss to Nigeria’s media landscape and the nation at large.
The President noted that Agbese, together with his pioneering colleagues at Newswatch, ushered in a bold, transformative style of investigative and interpretative journalism that reshaped Nigeria’s media practice and elevated standards of ethical and fearless reporting.
“Dan Agbese was not just a journalist; he was an institution,” President Tinubu said. “His pen shaped public opinion, strengthened democratic discourse, and inspired a generation of media practitioners.
He served Nigeria with integrity, courage, and an unyielding commitment to truth and justice. His contribution to the development of the modern Nigerian press will endure forever.”
The President extended heartfelt condolences to Agbese’s family—especially his wife and children—and to the entire journalism community.
‘A Titan of Truth’ — Minister Mohammed Idris Pays Tribute
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also mourned Agbese’s passing, describing him as “a foundational pillar of contemporary Nigerian journalism” and “a titan of truth.”
In his tribute, Idris highlighted Agbese’s pivotal role in advancing press freedom and shaping enlightened national discourse.
“By co-founding the trailblazing Newswatch magazine, he helped build an institution that became central to Nigeria’s national life,” the minister said. “His fearless ‘No Holds Barred’ column and decades of incisive writing held power accountable and contributed immensely to nation-building.”
Idris noted that Agbese’s death comes at a time when the Tinubu administration is committed to expanding democratic space, strengthening civic engagement, and safeguarding free speech—principles Agbese championed throughout his career.
“I mourn him not only with sadness but with deep gratitude for a legacy that has profoundly shaped public discourse in our nation,” the minister added.
He extended condolences to Agbese’s family, colleagues, and the wider media fraternity.
A Legacy of Excellence
Chief Dan Agbese earned degrees in Mass Communication and Journalism from the University of Lagos and Columbia University, New York. His storied career included serving as editor of The Nigeria Standard and The New Nigerian, as well as General Manager of Radio Benue.
As co-founder and former Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch, Agbese played a central role in creating one of the most influential weekly magazines in Nigerian history.
He authored numerous acclaimed books, including:
Nigeria, Their Nigeria
Fellow Nigerians
The Reporter’s Companion
Style: A Guide to Good Writing
The Columnist’s Companion: The Art and Craft of Column Writing. A revered newspaper columnist and towering figure in Nigerian journalism, Dan Agbese leaves behind an enduring legacy of courage, clarity, and commitment to truth. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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