Kogi State has lost one of its distinguished sons, veteran journalist and media pioneer Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed. A co-founder of Nigeria’s groundbreaking *Newswatch* magazine, Mohammed’s passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian journalism and the Kogi East region.
Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed was instrumental in shaping the landscape of modern Nigerian media. Alongside notable figures such as Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, he co-founded *Newswatch* in 1984, a journalistic enterprise that was Nigeria’s first major newsweekly owned and controlled by journalists. The magazine officially launched in 1985 and quickly became influential in Nigerian public discourse.
Mohammed served as Executive Editor and later Managing Editor of *Newswatch*, playing a pivotal role in defining its editorial direction and impact. His autobiography, *Beyond Expectations* (2025), provides a rare glimpse into the early days of *Newswatch*, including tensions with publisher M.K.O. Abiola that led the founders to seek complete editorial independence.
Beyond his editorial career, Mohammed was deeply involved in efforts to reclaim ‘Newswatch’ assets following the controversial takeover of the company by businessman Jimoh Ibrahim.
His memoir also sheds light on Nigerian political history, including the tragic assassination of Dele Giwa in 1986—one of Nigerian journalism’s darkest moments.
Mohammed’s journalism career began at the *New Nigerian* before moving to *National Concord*. His public service credentials include serving as Pro-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University and contributing significantly to the creation of Kogi State.
A native of Ologba in Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State, Mohammed also dabbled in politics, aspiring briefly to become governor of Kogi State.
His death is a profound loss not only to the journalistic community but also to his home state of Kogi, particularly the Kogi East district, where his legacy remains strong.
The news has deeply saddened many in the media and political circles who recall Mohammed’s dedication to truth, press freedom, and public service.
