The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, alongside Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have expressed profound grief over the passing of veteran journalist and Newswatch magazine co-founder, Dan Agbese, describing him as a “titan of truth” and a foundational figure in Nigeria’s modern media landscape.
In a statement, Minister Idris reflected on Agbese’s remarkable career, emphasizing his pivotal role in strengthening democratic discourse and championing press freedom. “Dan Agbese was a titan of truth whose work at Newswatch and through his incisive ‘No Holds Barred’ column exemplified courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to a free and responsible press,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also paid tribute to Agbese, calling his death a monumental loss to Nigeria’s media industry. In his condolence message, the governor highlighted the late journalist’s impact as a mentor and role model to generations of media practitioners. “The passing of Chief Dan Agbese is a great loss to the media sector, to Nigeria, and to all who knew him. He was a bold, courageous, and uncompromising journalist whose contributions advanced the growth and development of journalism in our country,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Chief Dan Agbese, who passed away on Monday, November 17, at the age of 81, leaves behind a legacy of fearless reporting, principled journalism, and a lifetime commitment to informing and educating the public. His influence on the media, as both an author and publisher, will be deeply missed.
