Nigeria has lost one of its most influential journalists and media architects with the passing of Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, a co-founder of the iconic Newswatch magazine and a respected statesman from Kogi East.
Alhaji Mohammed was a pioneering force in Nigerian journalism. In 1984, alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, he co-founded Newswatch, Nigeria’s first major journalist-owned newsweekly, which launched in 1985 and set new standards for investigative reporting, editorial independence, and professional courage.
At Newswatch, Mohammed served as Executive Editor and later Managing Editor, helping to shape the magazine’s fearless editorial identity. In his recently published memoir, Beyond Expectations (2025), he recounted the internal disagreements at National Concord under M.K.O. Abiola that prompted the founders to break away and establish Newswatch. The memoir also offers rare reflections on Nigeria’s political climate and the tragic 1986 assassination of Dele Giwa.
Beyond journalism, Alhaji Mohammed contributed significantly to national development. He served as Pro-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, played an instrumental role in the creation of Kogi State, and briefly pursued political ambitions, including aspirations to govern the state.
Until his final days, he remained engaged in efforts by the original Newswatch founders to reclaim the magazine’s assets following its disputed takeover.
A native of Ologba in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed leaves behind a legacy of integrity, courage, and service to journalism and nation-building
Nigeria’s media community bows in respect.
An Iroko has truly fallen.
Yakubu Mohammed: Media Giant Behind Newswatch, Kogi State Gone
