Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of veteran journalist and Newswatch Magazine co-founder, Chief Dan Agbese, who died on Monday, November 17, at the age of 81.
A Colossal Loss to Nigerian Journalism
In a heartfelt condolence message released on Tuesday, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Agbese's death as a colossal loss to Nigeria's media industry, calling the news both painful and heartbreaking. The governor emphasized that Agbese's passing represents a significant moment for journalism in Nigeria.
Chief Dan Agbese was 81 years old at the time of his death, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of media excellence and mentorship. Sanwo-Olu praised the late journalist as a bold, courageous, and uncompromising professional whose contributions fundamentally shaped Nigerian journalism.
Illustrious Career and Lasting Legacy
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted Agbese's remarkable career trajectory, which included serving as Editor of The Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian newspapers. He also held the position of General Manager at Radio Benue in Makurdi before achieving his most notable accomplishment as Editor-in-Chief and co-founder of the groundbreaking Newswatch magazine.
The governor noted that Agbese was widely celebrated for his satirical columns and mentorship that nurtured generations of media practitioners. Many of those he mentored have become leading voices not only in journalism but across various sectors in Nigeria and beyond.
Condolences to Family and Media Community
Sanwo-Olu extended his heartfelt sympathies to the Agbese family from the Ikpilogwu clan of Agila District in Ado Local Government Area of Benue State. He specifically mentioned Chief Rose Agbese, the widow, and their children, acknowledging the personal loss they are enduring.
The governor also expressed solidarity with Agbese's extensive network of friends, professional colleagues, and the broader media industry that has lost one of its founding pillars. In his concluding remarks, Sanwo-Olu stated: "I pray that God grants Dan Agbese eternal rest and gives those he left behind the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss."
The death of Chief Dan Agbese marks the end of an era in Nigerian journalism, leaving behind a void that will be difficult to fill in the media landscape he helped shape and define through his uncompromising standards and visionary leadership.
