Dr. Doyin Abiola, a pioneering figure in Nigerian journalism and widow of the late Chief MKO Abiola, passed away Tuesday night at the age of 82, following a period of illness. Family sources confirmed her death occurred at 9:15 p.m.
Dr. Abiola made history as the first Nigerian woman to become editor and later managing director/editor-in-chief of a national daily newspaper. Her over three-decade tenure at National Concord left a profound imprint on the country’s media landscape, with her leadership widely credited for mentoring generations of journalists and redefining editorial standards.
Born in 1943, she earned a degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969, beginning her journalism career at Daily Sketch. Her column “Tiro” became a platform for addressing pressing social issues, particularly those affecting women.
She furthered her education abroad, obtaining a Master’s degree in Journalism and later a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979. Upon her return, she took on editorial roles at Daily Times, eventually joining its editorial board alongside renowned journalists like Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan.
In 1980, she was appointed the pioneer editor of National Concord, a new publication spearheaded by MKO Abiola. She rose to become Managing Director in 1986, steering the newspaper through critical political eras and media reforms.
Married to MKO Abiola in 1981, Dr. Abiola stood by her husband through his political tribulations—most notably during the fallout from the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Beyond editorial work, Dr. Abiola served in multiple industry and academic advisory roles, including chairing the Nigerian Media Merit Award nomination panel and contributing to curriculum development at Ogun State University.
Her contributions garnered national and international accolades, among them the Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986 and the Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award—an honor shared by only a select few women in the industry.
Dr. Doyin Abiola is remembered as a trailblazer whose vision, integrity, and leadership helped transform Nigerian journalism. She leaves behind a legacy that will resonate far beyond newsroom walls.
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