Dan Agbese, veteran columnist, celebrated editor and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, has passed away at the age of 81.
In a statement released on Monday, the family spokesperson, Okibe Agbese, confirmed that the respected media icon died earlier in the day.
“Chief Dan Agbese transited to eternal glory this morning, Monday, November 17, 2025,” the statement read.
The family noted that details of the burial would be communicated at a later date.
Born on May 12, 1944, in Agila, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, Agbese rose to prominence as one of Nigeria’s most distinctive journalistic voices. Known for his sharp wit, elegant prose and unflinching commentary, he played a central role in shaping the country’s media landscape.
Agbese served as editor of the Nigeria Standard in Jos, Plateau state, and New Nigerian newspapers Kaduna, before taking up the position of general manager at Radio Benue, Makurdi.
He later co-founded Newswatch magazine and became its editor-in-chief, a position he held until April 2010.
Until his death, he wrote weekly columns for Daily Trust and The Guardian, remaining a formidable force in public discourse.
He also co-ran a media consultancy alongside Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed, and Soji Akinrinade, keeping alive his long-standing dedication to journalistic mentorship.
He is survived by his wife, Rose, six children, and seven grandchildren.
Veteran journalist Dan Agbese dies at 81
