Veteran journalist and clergyman Revd Mobolade Omonijo, a member of The Nation Editorial Board, has died at the age of 63.

The Diocese of Lagos West announced his death in a statement issued on Monday, saying Omonijo, who served as Vicar of the Church of Pentecost in Dopemu, Lagos, died on October 15, 2026.

His death has drawn tributes from the diocese and colleagues at The Nation, where he served as Group Political Editor and was remembered for his professionalism, analytical approach and dedication to journalism.

Key Takeaways

• Omonijo died at 63: The Diocese of Lagos West announced his death, stating that he died on October 15, 2026.
• He spent about four decades in journalism: The diocese described him as a devoted member of its Media and Publicity Department.
• He worked at major media organisations: His career included work at The Economist and Vanguard before he joined The Nation in 2008.
• Colleagues paid tribute: The Nation Editorial Board Chairman, Sam Omatseye, remembered him as a friend and a thorough reporter.
• Funeral details are pending: The newspaper said the family would announce arrangements later.

Diocese of Lagos West Pays Tribute to Omonijo

The Diocese of Lagos West described Omonijo as a devoted member of its Media and Publicity Department, noting that he had spent approximately four decades working in journalism.

The statement, signed by the Administrative Assistant to the Bishop, also asked the public to remember Omonijo’s children and other family members in their prayers.

Diocese’s Tribute to the Late Journalist

“He was very meek, lovely, conscientious, articulate, assiduous and meticulous. He was a person of remarkable verbal dexterity.”

The diocese praised Omonijo’s personal qualities and communication skills, presenting him as someone whose character and professional experience left a strong impression on those who knew him.

The statement concluded with a prayer for the deceased.

“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and rise in glory. Amen.”

Omonijo’s Journalism Career and Time at The Nation

In a separate report published on Monday, The Nation described Omonijo as a veteran journalist who served as the newspaper’s Group Political Editor.

According to the newspaper, he graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and previously worked at The Economist and Vanguard before joining The Nation in 2008.

His career spanned several decades, during which he worked in political journalism and contributed to the newspaper’s editorial discussions.

The supplied report also noted that health challenges had prevented him from continuing as political editor. No further details about his condition were provided.

Sam Omatseye Remembers Omonijo

The Nation Editorial Board Chairman, Sam Omatseye, also mourned Omonijo, describing his death as difficult to comprehend and paying tribute to his professionalism and contribution to the newspaper.

Omatseye recalled Omonijo’s qualities as both a friend and a journalist, highlighting his thorough reporting and rigorous approach to his work.

Omatseye’s Tribute to Omonijo

“Omonijo’s loss is impossible to wrap one’s mind around.”

Omatseye’s words reflected the personal and professional impact of the loss on his colleagues at the newspaper.

He also remembered Omonijo’s approach to reporting and his commitment to examining issues closely.

“As a man, he was a friend. As a reporter, he was thorough and unsparing in rigour.”

Omatseye further acknowledged Omonijo’s place within the newspaper’s editorial team and offered a final message of remembrance.

“We shall never forget you, Reverend.”

Omonijo’s Contribution to Editorial Discussions

According to Omatseye, Omonijo brought a critical perspective to Editorial Board discussions, seeking to look beyond partisan positions and maintain balance.

That approach, as described by his colleague, was an important part of his contribution to the newspaper’s editorial work.

His career at The Nation, following earlier roles at The Economist and Vanguard, formed a significant part of his professional legacy.

Family Yet to Announce Funeral Arrangements

The newspaper said Omonijo’s family would announce funeral details at a later date.

The Diocese of Lagos West has asked members of the public to remember his children and family in their prayers as they mourn his death.

Further details about the funeral and memorial arrangements had not been included in the supplied reports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who was Revd Mobolade Omonijo?

Revd Mobolade Omonijo was a veteran Nigerian journalist and clergyman who served on The Nation Editorial Board and worked as the newspaper’s Group Political Editor.

2. How old was Mobolade Omonijo when he died?

The supplied reports state that Omonijo was 63 years old at the time of his death.

3. When did Omonijo die?

The Diocese of Lagos West announced that he died on October 15, 2026.

4. Where did Omonijo serve as a clergyman?

He served as Vicar of the Church of Pentecost in Dopemu, Lagos.

5. Which media organisations did Omonijo work for?

According to The Nation, Omonijo previously worked at The Economist and Vanguard before joining The Nation in 2008.

6. What did Sam Omatseye say about Omonijo?

Omatseye described Omonijo as a friend and a thorough reporter, praising his rigour and remembering his contributions to the newspaper.

7. Has the family announced funeral arrangements?

The supplied report says the family would announce funeral details later. No specific funeral date or venue was provided.