Trailblazing Journalist and Media Icon, Dr. Doyin Abiola, Dies At 82

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

LAGOS, NIGERIA – Dr. Doyin Abiola, pioneering journalist, media executive, and wife of the late Chief MKO Abiola, has passed away at the age of 82.

She reportedly died at 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, after a prolonged illness.

A trailblazer in Nigerian media, Dr. Abiola was the first woman to serve as Editor of a daily newspaper in Nigeria – a historic milestone in the country’s journalism landscape.

She later rose to become the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of the National Concord, one of Nigeria’s most influential newspapers.

Married in 1981 to Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola – winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election and founder of the Concord media empire – Dr. Abiola stood resiliently through the personal and political storms that followed the historic election crisis.

She shouldered immense burdens as both a media leader and political figure’s spouse during Nigeria’s turbulent years.

Her academic journey began at the University of Ibadan, where she earned a degree in English and Drama in 1969.

She started her journalism career at the rested Daily Sketch, where she gained popularity for her column “Tiro”, which tackled social and gender issues.

In 1970, she traveled to the United States to pursue a Master’s degree in Journalism. Upon returning to Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer and rose to become Group Features Editor.

She later obtained a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979.

Returning to Daily Times, she joined its Editorial Board, working alongside influential media figures such as Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan.

Soon after, she was invited to help steer the editorial vision of the newly launched National Concord. In 1986, she was appointed Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, making her the first Nigerian woman to hold that position at a national daily newspaper.

Over a career spanning more than three decades, Dr. Abiola not only led National Concord through Nigeria’s volatile political terrain, but also championed professional journalism and press freedom.

Her influence extended well beyond the newsroom. She served as Chairperson of the Awards Nominating Panel for the inaugural Nigerian Media Merit Awards (NMMA), and was a member of the Advisory Council of the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences at Ogun State University.

Dr. Abiola was honoured with numerous accolades for her contributions to journalism, including the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award.

She was the second woman to receive the award, following Mrs. Omobola Onajide.

In 1986, she also received the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship, in recognition of her leadership and professional excellence.

Dr. Doyin Abiola leaves behind a powerful legacy – one of courage, intellect, and unshakable commitment to the ideals of journalism and democracy.

She remains a shining example for future generations in media and public service.