Doyin Abiola
Dr. Doyin Abiola, the wife of late MKO Abiola and Nigeria’s first female newspaper editor, passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the age of 82. She died at 9:15 p.m. after a brief illness. Dr. Abiola was a trailblazing journalist who made history as the first Nigerian woman to become the editor and later managing director/editor-in-chief of a national daily.
She began her journalism career at the Daily Sketch in 1969, where she launched a column called “Tiro” that focused on public interest and gender-related issues. Dr. Abiola earned a bachelor’s degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969 and later earned a master’s degree in journalism in the United States. She returned to work as a features writer at Daily Times, rising to become Group Features Editor.
Dr. Abiola’s career was marked by numerous achievements, including becoming the first Nigerian woman to serve as the editor-in-chief of a national daily newspaper. She worked with National Concord for nearly 30 years, shaping national media discourse and mentoring generations of journalists. Her contributions earned her multiple accolades, including the prestigious Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award and the Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986.
She was a passionate advocate for press freedom, gender equity, and national development. Dr. Abiola’s legacy extends beyond her connection to her late husband, MKO Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. She stood by his side during his political rise and turmoil, maintaining a posture of steadfast resolve .
Dr. Abiola’s impact on Nigerian media and journalism will be remembered for years to come. She served on various boards and committees in the country’s media sector, playing a critical role in shaping media standards, policies, and ethics in Nigeria. Her leadership of National Concord spanned over three decades, during which she mentored a generation of journalists and remained an influential voice in the media industry.
