Nigeria has lost one of its most iconic media pioneers. Dr. Doyin Abiola, the first woman to become editor and managing director of a national newspaper in Nigeria, passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 9:15 p.m., following a brief illness. She was 82.
The revered journalist, media strategist, and advocate for press freedom was a central figure in shaping Nigeria’s modern print journalism, blazing trails for women in a male-dominated industry. Her death marks the end of an era for the Fourth Estate in Nigeria.
Dr. Abiola began her journey in media at the Daily Sketch with her influential column Tiro, known for boldly addressing public issues and advocating for women’s rights. A graduate of the University of Ibadan (1969), she furthered her studies in journalism in the United States, earning a Master’s and later a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979.
Returning home, she joined the Daily Times and rose to Group Features Editor before being appointed by Chief MKO Abiola as the founding editor of National Concord in 1980. By 1986, she had made history as the newspaper’s Managing Director, overseeing one of Nigeria’s most impactful media houses through turbulent political times.
As the wife of Chief MKO Abiola—the presumed winner of Nigeria’s annulled 1993 presidential election—Doyin Abiola remained a pillar of resilience during the nation’s darkest democratic struggles. Her quiet strength in the face of political oppression endeared her to millions of Nigerians who revered her as more than just a media personality, but a moral force.
Dr. Abiola was also an influential force in journalism education. She chaired the nomination panel for the Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA) and served on advisory councils, including that of Ogun State University’s Faculty of Social and Management Sciences. Her accolades include the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986 and the DAME Lifetime Achievement Award.
She leaves behind a towering legacy of courage, intellect, and a relentless pursuit of journalistic excellence. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course by the family.
