Newswatch Co-Founder Yakubu Mohammed Reveals Efforts to Reclaim Magazine Ownership
Legendary journalist and media entrepreneur Yakubu Mohammed, co-founder and founding editor of Newswatch magazine, has disclosed ongoing efforts to reclaim ownership of the iconic publication. He revealed that these efforts are rooted in preserving the original vision of Newswatch; an institution he helped create that dramatically changed Nigerian journalism.
Mohammed shared this update in his memoir, Beyond Expectations, where he emphasizes that while Newswatch’s brand still carries weight, it has strayed from the ideals its founders set. His statement signals a renewed push to assert control over the magazine’s direction and legacy.Punch
Newswatch was originally founded in 1984 by Yakubu Mohammed, Ray Ekpu, Dele Giwa, and Dan Agbese after experiential tensions in the Concord media team. A rift arising from internal friction with publisher MKO Abiola propelled the quartet to launch Nigeria’s first news magazine modeled after Time and Newsweek. Mohammed often let others take the spotlight, but Agbese’s preface to his memoir underlines: “Yakubu Mohammed was the true initiator who brought us together to birth this venture.”PM News NigeriaVanguard News
Mohammed’s memoir, Beyond Expectations, is a testament to ethical journalism, leadership, and personal integrity. He gently steps back from the spotlight even as he was pivotal in Newswatch’s inception, while steering its editorial philosophy through turbulent political periods.News Agency of Nigeria
Though the hands-on reclaiming efforts are not yet public, Mohammed’s acknowledgment suggests unfolding plans. His statements hint at a possible legal or strategic push toward reinstating founder-led direction. This comes amid broader industry concerns that Newswatch’s current ownership has drifted from its livewire journalistic ethos.
Mohammed’s reflections also include candid details about internal struggles, like the friction with MKO Abiola that birthed Newswatch, and the landmark moments that defined the magazine’s early days. These founding episodes underscore why he feels strongly that the publication needs restoration of its original values.PM News NigeriaVanguard News
The context of this reclaiming move is shaped by Newswatch’s corporate history. In 2011, Jimoh Ibrahim acquired a controlling stake and numerous observers, including media advocates and civil society groups, have since raised concerns about the magazine’s waning independence. Back in 2012, these founders received support from a coalition calling for Newswatch’s restoration to its true guardians.thenigerianvoice.comWikipedia
Mohammed’s resolve to preserve journalistic legacy makes sense when considering Newswatch’s historical significance. Founded on bold, investigative reporting, the magazine pioneered a more probing form of journalism in Nigeria. Its dissolution or drift under newer ownership represents, in many eyes, a symbolic loss in media freedom.Wikipedia
Whether through legal channels, shareholder advocacy, or public pressure, the founders’ aim appears to reestablish their role, and restore editorial integrity. In a media landscape under pressure, reclaiming influence over a storied institution may offer a chance to revive vigilant reporting standards.
As he preps nostalgiac and visionary leadership, Yakubu Mohammed exemplifies a rare breed: a media pioneer who values institutional honor over personal acclaim. His push to reclaim Newswatch may well shape the future of independent journalism in Nigeria.
