6 key facts about late veteran Journalist, Yakubu Mohammed

Yakubu Mohammed, a respected Nigerian journalist, editor, writer, and media entrepreneur, has died at the age of 75.

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

Mohammed made a lasting impact on Nigerian journalism through his work and dedication.

Here are seven key facts you should know about the veteran journalist.

1. Birth

He was born on April 4, 1950, in Ologba, Dekina, Kogi State.

2. Education

He started his education at St. Joseph’s Primary School, Ayangba, and later attended Government Secondary School, Okene.

He earned a Bachelor of Science 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. Journalism career

Mohammed began his journalism career as Associate Editor at New Nigerian Newspapers from 1976 to 1980 and later became its Managing Editor in 1980.

He then joined National Concord as Deputy Editor in 1980 and became Editor in 1982, serving until 1984.

In 1984, he co-founded Newswatch magazine alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, helping to pioneer investigative journalism in Nigeria.

At Newswatch, he held several leadership roles, including Executive Editor, Managing Editor from 1986 to 1994, and Deputy CEO of Newswatch Communications Limited from 1994.

4. Publications

Mohammed was also a prolific writer. He maintained long-running columns in National Concord and Newswatch, co-edited Nigeria’s Business and Trade Fair Journal, and contributed to books such as Jogging in the Jungle: The Newswatch Story.

5. Public service career

Beyond journalism, he served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, from 2005 to 2007.

He also contested as a governorship candidate in Kogi State.

6. Family

Mohammed was married with children and enjoyed tennis, dancing, music, and movies.

Shortly before his death, he launched his memoir, Beyond Expectations, on November 4, 2025, reflecting on his career and life experiences.