Special Features
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.
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