Majeed Nizami (13 February 1936 – 11 June 2000) was a Pakistani journalist, editor, and media entrepreneur. He served as the chief editor and publisher of the Urdu-language newspaper Nawa-i-Waqt, a leading daily founded by his father, Hameed Nizami. Under his leadership, the newspaper expanded its circulation and diversified into a media group that included television channels, magazines, and other print publications.
Early life and education
Majeed Nizami was born in Lahore, British India (now Pakistan), into the Nizami family, which had been involved in journalism since the 1940s. He received his early education in Lahore and later attended the University of the Punjab, where he earned a degree in journalism and political science.
Career
After completing his studies, Nizami joined Nawa-i-Waqt as a sub‑editor. He progressed through editorial ranks, eventually assuming the role of chief editor in 1967 following the death of his father. During his tenure, he was known for advocating a nationalist editorial stance, emphasizing issues related to Pakistan’s sovereignty, Islamic identity, and regional politics.
In the 1990s, Nizami pioneered the group's entry into electronic media, establishing Geo TV (initially Geo News) and later launching auxiliary publications such as The Nation (English daily) and the magazine Waqt. He also founded the Nawaz Sharif Foundation for charitable work, though the foundation operated independently of his journalistic activities.
Personal life
Majeed Nizami was married to Tahira Nizami and had three children. His son, Arif Nizami, succeeded him as chief editor of Nawa-i-Waqt after his death.
Death and legacy
Nizami died of a cardiac arrest on 11 June 2000 in Lahore. He is remembered for modernizing Pakistani print media, expanding the Nawa-i-Waqt group’s reach, and influencing public discourse through both print and broadcast platforms. Posthumously, the Majeed Nizami Memorial Award was instituted by the Nawa-i-Waqt Group to honor contributions to journalism and media development in Pakistan.