Gov Alia renames Benue Printing House in honour of Dan Agbese

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has officially renamed the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation in honour of late veteran journalist Dan Agbese.

The governor said the decision is part of efforts to preserve Agbese’s legacy and promote ethical journalism in the state.

In a statement released on Friday by Solomon Iorpev, the governor’s Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, it was disclosed that an executive order has been signed to change the name of the corporation to Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation.

The government described the move as a tribute to one of Nigeria’s most respected media figures, noting that the renaming reflects the administration’s commitment to professionalism and integrity in journalism.

“The Executive Governor of Benue State has issued an executive order renaming the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation to Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation in honour of the late veteran journalist, Chief Dan Agbese,” Mr Iorpev stated.

He noted that the renaming formalises an earlier promise made during the live broadcast of Benue State’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, when Governor Alia pledged to immortalise the late journalist.

Mr 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, he said, 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.”

Very Nigerian reported that Mr Agbese passed away on 17 November 2025 at the age of 81, following a brief illness.

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential journalists, he co-founded Newswatch magazine with Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed.

Over decades of active journalism, Mr Agbese became known for his investigative rigor, 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.

Tributes from peers and civic leaders flowed following his death. The President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, Danlami Nmodu, described him as “a journalistic institution,” while the Guild’s General Secretary, Sufuyan Ojeifo, praised him for practising journalism “with conscience, courage and an unshakeable commitment to truth.”

In Friday’s statement, Mr Iorpev said Governor Alia believes that honouring Mr Agbese in this way will encourage responsible journalism and foster intellectual growth in the state.

He also urged media practitioners, writers, students, and public servants in Benue to uphold the principles that the late journalist stood for.

A native of Benue State, Mr Agbese mentored countless journalists and left behind a body of work that continues to influence public discourse.

The state government emphasised that renaming its publishing corporation reflects “the dignity, history and aspirations of the people” while recognising merit and service to society.

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