VETERAN EDITOR AND MEDIA LEADER, LEWIS OBI, DIES AT 77

The Nigerian media industry is in mourning following the death of Mr. Lewis Obi, a veteran journalist, editor and media executive whose work helped shape modern Nigerian journalism.

He was 77.Mr. Obi, a native of Amurri in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, received his early education at Methodist Central School, Agbani, before proceeding to the University of Lagos, where he earned a degree in Mass Communication.

At UNILAG, he was a distinguished student of the late renowned communications scholar, Professor Alfred Opubor.He began his illustrious career at the Daily Times, where he rose to prominence as an outstanding features writer.

His talent soon attracted the attention of the late business mogul and publisher, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, who recruited him into the Concord Group as Features Editor of National Concord.

Mr. Obi later became the founding editor, Editor-in-Chief, and Managing Director of African Concord, one of the group’s flagship weekly magazines.Under his leadership, African Concord evolved into a formidable platform for investigative and analytical journalism, particularly during Nigeria’s years of military rule.

His fearless editorial stance frequently brought him into confrontation with state authorities, culminating in intense repression that eventually forced him into exile in the United States.

Widely respected as a mentor with an exceptional eye for talent, Lewis Obi nurtured several journalists and public intellectuals who would go on to play leading roles in Nigeria’s media and public life.

His legacy is marked by editorial courage, literary excellence, and professional generosity.

Mr. Obi is survived by his wife and children