Sanwo-Olu mourns Newswatch co-founder Yakubu Mohammed

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, on Wednesday, described the death of renowned journalist and Newswatch Magazine co-founder, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, as a “colossal loss” to Nigeria’s media industry.

Mohammed, a former Managing Editor of Newswatch and ex-Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Newswatch Communications Limited, died on Tuesday at the age of 75.

The condolence message was issued by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, in Lagos.

The governor said the passing of the veteran journalist was painful and heartbreaking, noting that his wealth of experience and knowledge would be sorely missed.

“The death of Yakubu Mohammed is a great loss not only to journalism and the media industry in Nigeria, but also to his family, friends and all those who were touched by his work,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He described Mohammed as a bold, courageous and uncompromising journalist, editor, columnist and publisher who devoted his life to the growth and development of journalism in Nigeria.

“Yakubu Mohammed was a role model to many media practitioners.

“He nurtured talents and provided platforms that helped raise journalists who have become leading voices in the profession and leaders in different sectors of our national life,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu also noted that the late Mohammed, who served as Pro-Chancellor and later Chancellor of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, left an enduring legacy of professionalism, integrity and commitment to truth.

The governor, on behalf of the Lagos State Government and people, commiserated with Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, the Mohammed family and the people of Ologba in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi over the demise of the media icon.

“I also sympathise with his friends, colleagues and the entire media industry in Nigeria over the passing of this accomplished journalist.

“I pray that God grants Yakubu Mohammed eternal rest and gives his family and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.