By Joe Udo
LAGOS (CONVERSEER) – Veteran journalist and media trailblazer, Dr Doyin Abiola, wife of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, has passed away at the age of 82.
Family sources confirmed that Dr Abiola died at approximately 9:15 PM on Tuesday following a prolonged illness.
Journalism Pioneer
Dr Abiola made history as the first woman to serve as Editor and later Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of a national daily newspaper in Nigeria. Her pioneering role at the National Concord newspaper reshaped media leadership in the country and paved the way for future generations of female journalists.
During her three-decade-long career, she was celebrated for her commitment to professionalism, integrity, and mentorship, nurturing young journalists who went on to make significant contributions to the Nigerian media landscape.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1943, Dr Abiola graduated with a degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969. She began her journalism career at the Daily Sketch, where she wrote the widely followed “Tiro” column, focusing on social justice and gender equality.
In 1970, she travelled to the United States to pursue a Master’s degree in Journalism before returning to Nigeria to join the Daily Times as a Features Writer, eventually rising to Group Features Editor. In 1979, she obtained a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York University.
National Concord and Leadership
Dr Abiola was appointed the pioneer editor of National Concord in 1980 and became its Managing Director in 1986, becoming the first woman to hold such a position in Nigeria’s newspaper industry.
She married Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola in 1981 and stood firmly by him during his political struggles, particularly after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Contributions and Honours
Beyond her newsroom leadership, Dr Abiola contributed significantly to media development in Nigeria. She chaired the nomination panel of the Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA) and served on the advisory council of Ogun State University’s Faculty of Social and Management Sciences.
Her distinguished career earned her numerous recognitions, including the Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986 and the Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award, making her only the second woman to receive the honour after Mrs Omobola Onajide.
Lasting Legacy
Dr Doyin Abiola is remembered as a pioneering media leader whose legacy of excellence, mentorship and resilience continues to inspire generations within and beyond journalism.
