Senate President Akpabio Mourns Death of Veteran Journalist, Newswatch Co-Founder Dan Agbese
Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Dan Agbese, a distinguished journalist and co-founder of Newswatch magazine.
In a condolence message issued through his Office of Media & Publicity, Akpabio described Agbese’s death as “a monumental loss to Nigeria’s journalism family and to all who value truth, integrity, and courageous storytelling.”
He praised Agbese as a member of a generation of journalists who helped define the nation’s media landscape, noting that his work “set the standard for ethical, fearless, and professional journalism in Nigeria.”
Akpabio extended his condolences to Agbese’s family, friends, and the broader press community, including the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors.
He also reflected on Agbese’s enduring legacy, saying, “His writings shaped national conscience, challenged power, and illuminated the path of democracy. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists yet unborn.”
Agbese, aged 81, died on Monday, November 17, 2025, according to a family statement.
He was born on May 12, 1944, in Agila, Benue State, and earned both Mass Communication and Journalism degrees from the University of Lagos and Columbia University.
Throughout his career, Agbese held senior editorial positions at The Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian newspapers, and later served as General Manager of Radio Benue.
He was also part of the founding team of Newswatch magazine in 1984 alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed.
He served as Newswatch’s editor-in-chief until April 2010.
In addition to his editorial work, Agbese was a prolific author and columnist. He wrote several books and contributed weekly columns to prominent newspapers like the Daily Trust and The Guardian.
He also co-ran a media consultancy with Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed, and Soji Akinrinade.
He is survived by his wife, Rose Agbese, their six children, and seven grandchildren.
Akpabio prayed that Agbese’s soul “rest in perfect peace” and hoped that the country and press community would draw strength from his exemplary life.