Veteran Nigerian journalist and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, Chief Dan Agbese, has passed away at the age of 81.
Newsonspot reports that his family confirmed the sad news on Monday morning in Lagos, according to an online report by Mr. Shola Oshunkeye.
Chief Agbese was a respected columnist, editor, author, and one of the most influential voices in Nigerian journalism.
Born on May 12, 1944, in Agila, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, he built a remarkable career across print and broadcast media. He served as Editor of The Nigeria Standard, Editor of the New Nigerian, and General Manager of Radio Benue, Makurdi. He later became Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch magazine, holding the position until April 2010.
The family of the Ikpilogwu clan of Agila district announced:
“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.”
Chief Agbese held degrees in mass communication and journalism from the University of Lagos and Columbia University, New York. He authored several notable books, such as Nigeria Their Nigeria, Fellow Nigerians, The Reporter’s Companion, Style: A Guide to Good Writing, and The Columnist’s Companion.
Until his passing, he maintained weekly newspaper columns and also ran a media consultancy alongside his long-time colleagues: Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed, and Soji Akinrinade.
He is survived by his wife, Chief Rose Agbese, six children, and seven grandchildren.
The family says burial arrangements will be announced soon.
