Yakubu Mohammed, veteran journalist and co-founder of the defunct Newswatch magazine, has died at the age of 75.
His death occurred less than two months after the passing of another Newswatch co-founder, Dan Agbese, who died on November 17, 2025, marking a profound moment of loss for Nigeria’s media community.
Mohammed, a respected voice in Nigerian journalism, was a central figure in the establishment of Newswatch in 1984 alongside Dele Giwa, Dan Agbese and Ray Ekpu. The magazine became a symbol of bold investigative reporting during years of military rule, earning national and international recognition for its fearless pursuit of accountability.
Only weeks before his death, Mohammed unveiled his memoir, Beyond Expectations, on November 4, 2025, a work that reflected on leadership, governance and the ethical responsibilities of journalists in a democratic society.
As of press time, the family had yet to issue an official statement on funeral arrangements.
President Bola Tinubu, in a condolence message, described Mohammed as a courageous professional whose career was defined by integrity, sacrifice and commitment to the public good. The President extended his sympathies to the Mohammed family, the government and people of Kogi State, and members of the Nigerian media.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu noted that Mohammed’s journalism career spanned more than five decades, during which he consistently upheld the principles of truth and accountability.
The President also recalled Mohammed’s role in sustaining the Newswatch vision following the assassination of Dele Giwa in 1986, a period widely regarded as one of the most challenging moments in Nigeria’s media history.
Mohammed’s passing marks the end of an era shaped by courage, resilience and unwavering dedication to journalism in Nigeria.
