Agbese, who is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential journalists, passed away on 17 November 2025 at the age of 81.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has renamed the state’s Printing and Publishing Corporation after the late media icon and one of Nigeria’s most respected journalists, Dan Agbese, in appreciation of his contributions to media practice and society.
The decision was announced on Friday in a statement issued by the Governor’s Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity, and Strategic Communication, Solomon Iorpev.
According to Iorpev, an executive order has been signed to change the corporation’s name to the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation.
Agbese, widely acclaimed as one of Nigeria’s most influential journalists, passed away on 17 November 2025 at the age of 81 following a brief illness.
A native of Benue State, he co-founded Newswatch magazine in 1984 alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed.
Over decades of active journalism, he became known for his investigative rigour, analytical insight, and fearless commentary.
His columns in Newswatch and other national newspapers shaped public opinion and held leaders accountable. He also authored several books on Nigeria’s political landscape, including The Letterman, and co-authored The President Is Not Sick.
Beyond his writing, Agbese mentored countless journalists and left behind a body of work that continues to influence public discourse.
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While acknowledging his impact, Iorpev said naming the state’s printing house after him aims to preserve his legacy and promote ethical journalism across the state.
“The Executive Governor of Benue State has issued an executive order renaming the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation to the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation in honour of the late veteran journalist, Chief Dan Agbese,” the media aide stated.
He noted that the action formalises a promise made during the live broadcast of Benue State’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, when Governor Alia pledged to immortalise the late journalist.
Iorpev added that the change takes immediate effect and applies to “all official documents, communications, legal instruments, signage, branding materials, and public references,” with all relevant ministries and agencies instructed to ensure full compliance.
The Governor hopes that this gesture will “institutionalise excellence in public communication, preserve Chief Agbese’s legacy, and inspire future generations to pursue truth and service with courage and professionalism.”
He believes that honouring Agbese in this way will encourage responsible journalism and foster intellectual growth within the state.
He also urged media practitioners, writers, students, and public servants in Benue to uphold the principles for which the late journalist stood.
The state government emphasised that renaming the corporation reflects “the dignity, history, and aspirations of the people” while recognising merit and service to society.
