By Nwakanma Lauren
The Nigerian media landscape has lost one of its brightest stars. Dr. Doyin Abiola, a pioneering journalist, astute media executive, and the first woman to edit a national daily newspaper in Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 82. She reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest on August 5 at about 9 p.m.
Dr. Abiola was more than just a name in the press. She was a force, respected, trailblazing, and determined to redefine the boundaries for women in media and public life. As the former Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of the National Concord, she shaped narratives, mentored generations of journalists, and helped cement the media’s place as the fourth estate of the realm during some of Nigeria’s most challenging times.
Born in 1943, Doyin Abiola’s foray into journalism began at the Daily Sketch in 1969, shortly after obtaining her degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan. There, she wrote a column titled ‘Tiro’, fearlessly engaging with public issues and gender dynamics long before such conversations became mainstream.
Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, she left Nigeria in 1970 for the United States, where she earned a Master’s degree in Journalism. But that was only the beginning. By 1979, she had obtained a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York University; an achievement that was as rare then as it is now, especially for a Nigerian woman.
Upon her return to Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer. Her diligence and journalistic flair saw her rise to become the Group Features Editor and later a member of the prestigious editorial board, working alongside revered names like Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan.
Her turning point came when she was invited to become the pioneer daily editor of the newly founded National Concord newspaper, owned by Chief MKO Abiola. Her leadership and vision for excellence would soon see her appointed as the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief in 1986, cementing her place in history as one of the most influential media executives in Nigeria.
In a male-dominated industry and at a politically turbulent time in Nigeria’s history, Dr. Abiola not only thrived, she led. Her tenure at National Concord was marked by fearless journalism, editorial innovation, and an unwavering commitment to truth, responsibility, and national progress.
Dr. Abiola’s influence extended well beyond newspaper pages. She was Chairperson of the Awards Nominating Panel at the first Nigerian Media Merit Award, demonstrating her dedication to media integrity and professional recognition. She also contributed her expertise to academic development, serving on advisory councils for institutions like Ogun State University.
In 2015, she was honored with the prestigious Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming only the second woman to receive the accolade. The award acknowledged her lifelong devotion to journalism and her role in strengthening democratic ideals through a free and responsible press.
Dr. Abiola was married to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. As the wife of a political martyr and democracy icon, she bore the burdens of national tragedy with remarkable composure and grace. During the political repression that followed the annulled election, she stood firm—an emblem of resilience and quiet strength.
Despite the shadows of personal loss and national upheaval, she never stepped away from her duties or her principles. Her legacy remains a testament to the idea that one can lead with both heart and spine.
Dr. Doyin Abiola’s death leaves a deep void in the Nigerian media community and beyond. Her life was one of firsts; first female editor, first to break boundaries, and among the first to insist that journalism must serve not only to inform but to uplift.
She will be remembered not just for the titles she held, but for the standard she set, a standard of excellence, courage, and intellectual depth. Her story will continue to inspire generations of women and men who believe in the power of the press to shape a better future.
