Veteran Journalist, Newswatch Co-Founder Yakubu Mohammed Dies at 75

Veteran Journalist, Newswatch Co-Founder Yakubu Mohammed Dies at 75

Yakubu Mohammed, a renowned veteran Nigerian journalist and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, has died at the age of 75, triggering widespread tributes from government officials, media organisations and colleagues across the country.

Mohammed reportedly passed away on Tuesday night after a brief illness, bringing to an end a distinguished career that helped shape investigative journalism in Nigeria. He was one of the pioneering journalists who co-founded Newswatch in 1984 alongside Dele Giwa, Dan Agbese and Ray Ekpu, establishing the magazine as a fearless voice during Nigeria’s years of military rule.

Born in Kogi State, Mohammed began his journalism career at the New Nigerian Newspapers before rising to national prominence through Newswatch, which became synonymous with bold reporting, editorial independence and the defence of press freedom.

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Following the news of his death, President Bola Tinubu and other national leaders described Mohammed as a courageous professional who dedicated his life to truth, accountability and nation-building. Media bodies, including the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), also paid glowing tributes, hailing his integrity, mentorship and enduring impact on the profession.

Beyond journalism, Mohammed served in several national capacities, including as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and remained an influential voice in public affairs. His passing comes barely months after the death of fellow Newswatch co-founder Dan Agbese, marking another major loss for Nigeria’s media community.

Tributes continue to pour in as Nigerians reflect on the legacy of a man widely regarded as one of the architects of modern Nigerian journalism.

Veteran Journalist, Newswatch Co-Founder Yakubu Mohammed Dies at 75