10 things to know about late Newswatch Co-founder, Yakubu Mohammed

Yakubu Mohammed, a frontline Nigerian journalist, editor, writer, and media entrepreneur, has passed away at the age of 75. 

His death comes less than two months after the passing of fellow Newswatch co-founder Dan Agbese, who died on November 17, 2025.

Yakubu Mohammed left a lasting mark on Nigerian journalism.

Here are 10 key things to know about his life and career:

1. Birth: Yakubu Mohammed was born on April 4, 1950, in Ologba, Dekina, Kogi State.

2. Education: He attended St. Joseph’s Primary School, Ayangba, and Government Secondary School, Okene.

He earned a B.Sc in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos in 1975 and a post-graduate diploma in management and public administration from Glasgow College of Technology, Scotland, in 1979.

3. Early Career: Mohammed began his journalism career as Associate Editor of New Nigerian Newspapers (1976–1980) and later became its Managing Editor in 1980.

4. National Concord: He joined National Concord as Deputy Editor in 1980 and became Editor in 1982, a position he held until 1984.

5. Newswatch Co-founder: In 1984, Mohammed co-founded Newswatch magazine with Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, helping to pioneer investigative journalism in Nigeria.

6. Leadership Roles at Newswatch: He served in various roles including Executive Editor, Managing Editor (1986–1994), and Deputy CEO of Newswatch Communications Limited from 1994.

7. Publications: Mohammed wrote extensively, maintaining long-running columns in National Concord and Newswatch.

He co-edited Nigeria’s Business and Trade Fair Journal and contributed to books like Jogging in the Jungle: The Newswatch Story.

8. Public Service and Politics: Beyond journalism, he served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (2005–2007), and was also a governorship candidate in Kogi State.

9. Personal Life: He was married with children and enjoyed tennis, dancing, music, and movies.

10. Achievements: Shortly before his death, Mohammed launched his memoir, Beyond Expectations, on November 4, 2025, reflecting on his career and life experiences.

Join Very Nigerian WhatsApp Channel
For Verified Breaking News, Exclusive Reports, Trending Stories, And Real-time Updates.
CLICk HERE TO JOIN!