…Doyin Abiola’s legacy is defined by courage, professionalism, and a steadfast dedication to truth and public service.
LAGOS, NIGERIA – The iNews Times|Dr. Doyin Abiola, renowned Nigerian journalist and former Managing Director of the National Concord newspaper, has passed away at the age of 82.
Family sources confirmed that she died peacefully at 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday after a brief illness.
A pioneering force in Nigerian journalism, Dr. Abiola holds the distinction of being the first Nigerian woman to serve as both editor and later managing director/editor-in-chief of a national daily newspaper – a feat that reshaped the role of women in the country’s media landscape.
Born in 1943, Doyin Abiola earned her degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969. She launched her journalism career at the Daily Sketch, where her bold and thought-provoking column, Tiro, garnered significant readership – particularly for its focus on societal issues affecting women.
In 1970, Doyin Abiola pursued further education in the United States, obtaining a Master’s degree in Journalism, followed by a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979.
Upon her return to Nigeria, Doyin Abiola joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer and rose to the position of Group Features Editor, before making history in 1980 when she became the founding editor of National Concord – a newspaper established by her future husband, businessman and political icon, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola. She was later appointed Managing Director of Concord Press in 1986.
Dr. Abiola married MKO Abiola in 1981 and stood by him throughout his political struggles, including his incarceration following the annulment of Nigeria’s historic June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Widely respected as a symbol of integrity, intellect, and quiet resilience, Dr. Abiola also made significant contributions beyond the newsroom. She served as chairperson of the Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA) nomination panel and was a member of the Advisory Council for the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences at Ogun State University.
In recognition of her trailblazing career and commitment to journalistic excellence, Doyin Abiola received multiple honors, including the Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986 and the DAME Lifetime Achievement Award, making her only the second woman ever to receive the prestigious honor after Mrs. Omobola Onajide.
Dr. Abiola’s legacy is defined by courage, professionalism, and a steadfast dedication to truth and public service. She inspired generations of journalists-especially women, to lead with conviction in a male-dominated field.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
