Gov Alia renames Benue State Printing House after Dan Agbese
Benue State Renames Printing Corporation in Honor of Late Journalist Dan Agbese
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia announced the official renaming of the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation to the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation, paying tribute to the late journalist and media icon.
The governor’s office released a statement on Friday detailing the change, which aims to honor Agbese’s legacy while promoting ethical journalism throughout the state. An executive order has been signed to implement the name change immediately.
“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 honor of the late veteran journalist, Chief Dan Agbese,” said Solomon Iorpev, the governor’s Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity, and Strategic Communication.
This renaming formalizes a commitment made during the live broadcast of the state’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, where Governor Alia pledged to immortalize Agbese’s contributions to journalism.
The name change affects all official documents and communications, including legal instruments, signage, and branding materials. Relevant ministries and agencies have been directed to ensure compliance.
Governor Alia expressed hope that this gesture will promote excellence in public communication and inspire future generations to pursue truth and professionalism in their work.
Agbese passed away on November 17, 2025, at the age of 81. He was widely recognized as one of Nigeria’s most significant journalists, co-founding Newswatch magazine alongside prominent figures such as Dele Giwa and Ray Ekpu. Known for his investigative excellence, Agbese’s columns in Newswatch and various national newspapers significantly shaped public opinion and held leaders accountable.
In addition to numerous articles, he authored several insightful books on Nigeria’s political landscape, including The Letterman and The President Is Not Sick.
Following Agbese’s death, tributes from colleagues and civic leaders highlighted his impact on journalism. Danlami Nmodu, President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, described him as “a journalistic institution,” while Sufuyan Ojeifo, the Guild’s General Secretary, commended his commitment to truth and ethics in journalism.
In the statement, Iorpev underscored Governor Alia’s belief that recognizing Agbese in this manner will inspire responsible journalism and intellectual growth throughout Benue State. He urged media practitioners, writers, students, and public servants to uphold the principles for which Agbese stood.
A native of Benue State, Agbese mentored numerous journalists and left a lasting legacy that continues to influence public discourse. The state government emphasized that renaming the publishing corporation reflects “the dignity, history, and aspirations of the people,” while also recognizing merit and service to society.
